On August 11, 2011, IIUSA (Association to Invest In USA) held its First Annual International Investment & Economic Development Forum in Seattle, Washington. The conference was attended by some 300 people from all over the USA. Attendees included attorneys, regional center representative, brokers, bankers and other professionals dealing with EB5 visas. Watson Immigration Law was proud to attend the event.
The conference started with a welcome reception cruise on Elliot Bay. The fancy cruise was much fun particularly in perfect summer weather. Mr. David Anderson, President of IIUSA, welcomed the attendees to the cruise. A fabulous musician, Mr. Anderson also entertained the crowd by playing his guitar with his band.
The conference was held at the Edgewater Hotel. The keynote speakers were Washington State Senators Mr. Jim Kastama and Doug Erikson, both of whom serve on the Economic Development, Trade & Innovation Committe (among others). Both speakers echoed that the EB5 program should not sunset in September 2012 and that efforts are being made to ensure the program becomes permanent. Both talked about the vast amount of money the EB5 program has brought into the US and how beneficial it has been in creating jobs in the US.
The conference continued with valuable updates about USCIS policy. Former Chief Counsel and Acting Director of USCIS Mr. Robert Divine attended to provide USCIS policy updates. Included in the update was mention of the possibility of premium processing for EB5 cases. The conference also included updates about US Securities Laws as well as issues specific to Chinese rules that affect EB5 cases involving citizens of China.
All in all, the conference was very informative and enjoyable. Watson Immigration Law thanks IIUSA for organizing the event.