WORDS: DEBBIE HATHWAY :: PHOTOS: SUPPLIED
Envision a better education for your children when you invest in Florida through the EB-5 Investor Visa Program.
The US is forecast to have the fourth-highest net inflow of millionaires (2,100) globally in 2023, according to Mehdi Kadiri, managing partner and head of North America at Henley & Partners, with the “American Dream” very much alive for many foreign investors. The latest data from the global leader in residence and citizenship by investment confirms the country’s status as the world’s most influential wealth hub, accounting for 32% of global wealth and over one in three millionaires.
Those who seek access to the US, be it through the EB-5 or E-2 routes, are “driven as much by entrepreneurial ambition as they are by their desire for better opportunities for their families, to secure access to the best education at Ivy League colleges, and to ensure their children have the best chance for a prosperous future,” says Kadiri.
1818 Park
SUN, SURF AND SUCCESS
Florida, one of the most attractive destinations for South Africans, ranks third in the country for education and is the eighth-best state in economy rankings. Stuart Ferguson, director at American Dream, explains that the state’s comfortable climate and lack of personal income tax add to its appeal. “In 2020, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced 66 approved Regional Centres in Florida alone. According to the American Immigration Council, one in five Florida residents are immigrants and more than half of the population are naturalised citizens. It stands to reason that South Africans make up a substantial portion of these with major drawcards being the state’s tropical climate, laid-back lifestyle, university and college offerings, booming economy, and a business-friendly environment ideal for starting a business or investing in real estate,” he says.
Florida’s allure stems from its warm weather, diverse population, and abundant job opportunities. The state boasts many cultural attractions, including world-renowned destinations like Disney World, Universal Studios, and the Kennedy Space Centre. Notably, Florida has become a highly sought-after location for retirees, earning recognition from personal finance platform WalletHub as the second-best state for retirement in 2023. This ranking is based on a comprehensive evaluation of three key dimensions: affordability, quality of life, and healthcare. Florida excels in quality of life and affordability, solidifying its appeal as a prime choice for individuals seeking an enjoyable and cost-effective retirement experience.
1818 Park
LIVE LIKE AN AMERICAN
Ferguson says the fail-safe way to live like an American by gaining Green Card status for investors and their immediate family is through the EB-5 Investor Programme with an investment of $800,000. “As part of our American Dream service, we offer a streamlined and trusted route for EB-5 investors, with the advantage of a financial plan that enables clients to pay in increments. Through our comprehensive knowledge and partnerships with industry experts, American Dream can assist you in practically every phase of your relocation to the US, from consultation to education and advice,” shares Ferguson.
They have assisted clients like Brandon Hiemstra, founder of the well-known brand, House of Macadamias, to relocate this way. “Growing up in Nelspruit, a small rural town in SA, with a deep connection to agriculture, I set out to carve my own path, which led me to Los Angeles. During moments of homesickness, I sought out my favourite macadamia snacks. Tracking them down wasn’t easy and they were uncomfortably expensive. I then contacted my farmer friends in SA, and it soon became clear that they wanted to get their macadamias into the US but didn’t have the right contacts. This realisation planted the seeds of possibility, and we started drawing up tentative plans. A young and passionate team soon came together, with the head of growth and operations based in SA,” says Hiemstra.
1818 Park
POPULAR LUXURY HIGH-RISE
As development in this region soars, EB-5 opportunities in South Florida are proving more resilient than ever. One such opportunity is 1818 Park in Hollywood, Florida. Chris Immelman, head of Pam Golding International, which markets the development, says it has seen phenomenal demand since opening in 2022, boasting occupancy rates exceeding 95% each week. “Emigrating through the EB-5 Program gives your children Green Card access to many US Ivy League schools and international career opportunities in secure neighbourhoods. South Florida has seen tremendous growth in families emigrating in the last few years. “This is a high-performing development area for EB-5 investors, and tax laws are favourable for companies and individuals,” he says.
Located within the popular Young Circle, 1818 Park presents an ideal location just steps away from Miami’s lively coastal attractions. Offering both convenience and luxury, this prime address grants residents easy walking access to a wide array of restaurants, entertainment venues, and business establishments. Moreover, the luxury residence provides numerous on-site facilities to cater to residents’ needs. “With the development already completed and approved by the US government, investing in 1818 Park ensures promising returns and an efficient application process for interested individuals,” says Immelman. American Dream offers a deferred payment schedule specifically tailored for 1818 Park, allowing investors to secure their investment with an initial payment of $250,000 and commence their EB-5 Visa applications without delay.
1818 Park’s resort-style amenities include a concierge service, rooftop pools and lounge area, two fitness centres, poolside barbecue areas, an on-site café, yoga and stretch studio, coworking space, private conference rooms, and a planned retail component.
South Florida
