EB-5 Program Guide
Your comprehensive resource for understanding the U.S. EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program.
Learn the process, requirements, costs, risks, and get answers to common questions.
EB-5 Program Overview
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers foreign investors and their immediate families a path to U.S. permanent residency (Green Card) by making a qualifying investment in the U.S. economy and creating jobs for American workers.
- Minimum Investment: $800,000 (Targeted Employment Area) or $1,050,000 (standard)
- Job Creation: Must create or preserve at least 10 full-time U.S. jobs
- Eligible Investors: Open to individuals worldwide who meet investment and legal requirements
- Family Benefits: Spouse and unmarried children under 21 included
The EB-5 program is administered by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and is a popular route for investors seeking U.S. residency and business opportunities.
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Select a Project or Regional Center
Research and choose a qualifying EB-5 project or USCIS-approved Regional Center that aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.
2
Invest Capital
Invest the required amount ($800,000 or $1,050,000) into the selected project. Funds must be lawfully sourced and fully at risk.
3
File Form I-526E
Submit the I-526E petition to USCIS, providing evidence of your investment, source of funds, and project compliance.
4
USCIS Review & Approval
USCIS reviews your petition. Upon approval, you and your family can apply for conditional Green Cards (via adjustment of status or consular processing).
5
Conditional Residency
Receive a 2-year conditional Green Card. You must maintain your investment and meet job creation requirements during this period.
6
File Form I-829
Near the end of the 2-year period, file Form I-829 to remove conditions. Prove that your investment was sustained and jobs were created.
7
Permanent Green Card
Upon I-829 approval, you and your family receive permanent Green Cards and can live, work, and study anywhere in the U.S.
Costs & Timeline
Investment Amounts
- $800,000: For projects in Targeted Employment Areas (TEA)
- $1,050,000: For standard projects
Additional Fees
- USCIS Filing Fees (I-526E, I-829, etc.)
- Attorney and administrative fees
- Regional Center fees (if applicable)
- Due diligence and translation costs
Typical Timeline
- I-526E Processing: 12–36 months (varies by country and project)
- Conditional Green Card: Issued after I-526E approval (6–12 months for adjustment/consular processing)
- Condition Removal (I-829): File after 2 years of conditional residency; approval may take 2–3 years
Note: Timelines are estimates and subject to change based on USCIS processing and individual circumstances.
Risks & Compliance
Investment Risks
- EB-5 investments must be "at risk" for immigration purposes—no guaranteed returns or capital preservation.
- Project failure or insufficient job creation can jeopardize Green Card eligibility.
- Market, management, and regulatory risks apply.
Compliance Requirements
- Funds must be lawfully sourced and documented.
- Investment must remain in the project until conditions are removed.
- Ongoing reporting and documentation are required for USCIS compliance.
How to Mitigate Risks
- Conduct thorough due diligence on projects and Regional Centers.
- Work with experienced immigration attorneys and financial advisors.
- Monitor project progress and maintain clear records.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Any foreign national who can invest the required capital, prove lawful source of funds, and meet other legal requirements may apply. Spouse and unmarried children under 21 are included.
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EB-5 investments must be "at risk" and cannot be guaranteed. Repayment depends on project success and terms. Review offering documents and consult professionals.
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The process can take 2–5 years or more, depending on USCIS processing times, country of origin, and project factors.
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No. Most investors use Regional Centers, which manage the project. Direct EB-5 investments require more active involvement.
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Yes. Once you receive your Green Card, you and your family can live, work, and study anywhere in the United States.