What is the EB-5 Visa? A Complete Beginner’s Guide | EB5Visa.io
Program Overview

What is the EB-5 Visa?

Created by Congress in 1990, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is a direct path to U.S. Permanent Residency (Green Card) for foreign investors who stimulate the U.S. economy through capital investment and job creation.

The 3 Core Requirements

Capital Investment

You must invest a minimum of $1.05 Million into a new commercial enterprise.

Exception: The minimum drops to $800,000 if the project is located in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or Rural Area.

Job Creation

Your investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for qualifying U.S. workers. If using a Regional Center, "indirect" and "induced" jobs created by construction also count toward this goal.

"At-Risk" Capital

The invested capital must be fully "at risk," meaning there can be no guarantees of a return on your investment or strict redemption agreements to buy back your shares. Your funds must be lawfully sourced.

Why Choose the EB-5 Program?

Covers Your Entire Family

A single investment grants Green Cards to the investor, their spouse, and all unmarried children under 21 years old.

No Employer Sponsor Needed

Unlike H-1B or EB-2/EB-3 visas, you do not need an employer to sponsor you, nor are you tied to a specific job.

Live & Work Anywhere

You are free to live, work, retire, or start your own business anywhere in the United States, regardless of where the project is located.

Education Benefits

Children gain access to U.S. public schools and can qualify for lower "in-state" tuition rates at public universities.

The 4-Step Journey

1

Select & Invest

Hire an immigration attorney to verify your lawful source of funds, choose a qualifying project, and transfer the capital ($800K+).

2

File I-526E Petition

Your attorney files the I-526E with USCIS. Once approved, you apply for an immigrant visa (if abroad) or adjust status (if in the U.S.).

3

Conditional Green Card

You and your family receive a 2-year Conditional Green Card. You can now move to the U.S. and enjoy all residency benefits.

4

Permanent Green Card

Before the 2 years end, you file the I-829 petition to prove 10 jobs were created. Upon approval, conditions are removed permanently.

Ready to start your EB-5 Journey?

Navigating the complex immigration laws requires an expert. Connect with a licensed immigration attorney to review your eligibility and source of funds.

Find an EB-5 Attorney