Foreign Investment Insurance

To insure investments of eligible U.S. investors in developing countries and emerging markets, against the political risks of inconvertibility, expropriation, and political violence. Special programs include insuring (l)contractors and exporters against arbitrary drawings of letters of credit posted as bid, performance or advance payment guaranties, (2)petroleum exploration, development and production (3)leasing operations, and (4) debt financials, including securities.

Citizen of the United States; a corporation, partnership, or other association created under the laws of the United States or any State or territory, of which more than 50 percent is beneficially owned by U.S. citizens; a foreign corporation at least 95 percent owned by such entities; or any other 100 percent U.S.-owned foreign entity.

OPIC does not support projects that will result in the loss of U.S. jobs, that have a negative impact on the host country's economy or environment, or contribute to violations of internationally recognized worker rights. OPIC only supports projects that contribute to the economic and social development of the host country.

A bilateral agreement between the United States and the host country government must be in place before OPIC can provide insurance for a given country. Additionally, special project approval by the foreign government is required in some countries before insurance can be provided.

To encourage private U.S. investment in developing countries and emerging economies by protecting against certain political risks. Investments may be eligible for insurance if they benefit the social and economic development of the host country. OPIC will not support projects that could result in the loss of U.S. jobs, adversely affect the U.S. economy, have a negative impact on the host country's development or environment, or contribute to violations of internationally recognized worker rights.

Maximum insurance term is 20 years for equity investment; for loans, the term of the loan; for contracts, the term of the contract.

The insurance program has a two-step application process. Investors must first register their projects with OPIC before making an irrevocable commitment to invest. Once the details of the investment have been established, an application for insurance coverage is filed. OPIC charges a retainer fee after the submission of an application for insurance in order to proceed with review of the project. Registration and application forms are available on request from the Insurance Applications Officer, Overseas Private Investment Corporation, 1100 New York Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20527, or on OPIC's website: www.opic.gov.

Insurance is issued directly to the applicant by OPIC, or through a broker if the investor so chooses.

Registration must be made prior to making an irrevocable commitment to invest. The registration remains active at OPIC for 2 years.

Will vary depending on size and complexity of project.

OPIC insurance contracts can be offered at fixed rates for up to 20 years. Investor has the opportunity to change insurance elections annually or semi-annually. Policies are non-cancelable by OPIC, provided that investor is paying premiums and is not in material breach of the contract.