EB5 Capital announced on September 30, 2026, that it has welcomed its first investor from Cuba, achieving a milestone of 80 investor countries. This development underscores the broadening reach of the EB-5 immigrant investor program, which offers foreign nationals a pathway to permanent U.S. residency through job-creating investments. For EB5 Capital, a Washington, D.C.-based regional center operator, the addition of Cuba signifies a strategic expansion in Latin America and reinforces the program's global allure.
The EB-5 program allows qualified investors to obtain green cards by investing in commercial enterprises that generate U.S. jobs. EB5 Capital, founded in 2008, has raised nearly $2 billion across 50 projects, specializing in multifamily residential, office, and hospitality developments. The firm's track record and multilingual support have attracted investors from 81 countries, according to its press release. The milestone with Cuba is particularly notable as it reflects the program's ability to reach diverse families, even from countries with limited economic ties to the United States.
Brian Ostar, President of EB5 Capital, emphasized the human impact of this expansion. "Every new country we reach represents real families and real opportunities," he said. "We're thrilled to be able to welcome Cuban investors and support their goals for building a stronger future." His comments highlight how the EB-5 program transcends mere financial transactions, offering a lifeline for families seeking stability and prosperity in the U.S. The inclusion of Cuba also diversifies EB5 Capital's investor base, which has traditionally drawn from Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina.
Andrea Devis Focke, Investor Relations Senior Director for Latin America at EB5 Capital, noted the broader implications. "Connecting with families from countries such as Cuba, Ecuador, and Peru has shown me just how far this program reaches," she said. "Welcoming investors from 80 countries is a testament to the program's appeal across borders and the shared desire to build a stronger future." Her remarks point to a growing trend: the EB-5 program is increasingly attractive to investors from smaller Latin American nations, driven by its potential for both immigration and capital growth.
For Cuba, this milestone could signal new opportunities for its citizens amid economic challenges. The EB-5 program requires investments that create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers, often through real estate projects. EB5 Capital's portfolio, which includes multifamily and hospitality developments, offers investors a chance to grow their capital while securing residency. The firm's assurance that 100% of investor funds are protected by FDIC insurance prior to deployment adds a layer of security that may appeal to Cuban investors wary of economic instability.
The announcement also reflects EB5 Capital's competitive edge in the regional center industry. As one of the oldest and most active operators, the firm has consistently expanded its reach, now spanning 81 countries. This diversity not only mitigates risk but also enhances the cultural and economic ties between the U.S. and investor nations. For Cuba, the milestone may encourage other families to explore EB-5 as a viable path to U.S. residency, potentially leading to increased capital inflows and stronger diaspora connections.
In a global landscape where immigration policies are often restrictive, EB5 Capital's achievement highlights the EB-5 program's resilience and adaptability. By welcoming Cuban investors, the firm not only celebrates a numerical milestone but also affirms its commitment to making a measurable difference in the lives of immigrant families. As the program continues to evolve, its ability to attract investors from diverse backgrounds will remain a key indicator of its success and relevance. For more information about EB5 Capital and its projects, visit www.eb5capital.com.
