EB-5 Visa: Your Gateway to U.S. Permanent Residency Through Investment

EB-5 Visa: Your Gateway to U.S. Permanent Residency Through Investment EB-5 investor visa. EB-5 visa requirements. EB-5 visa minimum investment.

Secure your future in America by investing in the U.S. economy. Understand the EB-5 investor visa requirements, process, and how it leads to a green card for you and your family.

EB-5 at a Glance

The EB-5 visa program grants Green Cards to foreign investors who make a substantial investment in a new commercial enterprise that creates jobs for U.S. workers.

Minimum Investment Amount

Typically $1.8 million, or $900,000 if investing in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) – a rural area or area with high unemployment.

Job Creation Requirement

Investment must create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers within two years.

Investment Types

Direct Investment: Start or invest in your own business.

Regional Center: Invest through a USCIS-approved Regional Center, which sponsors projects to pool EB-5 investments (popular for a more hands-off approach).

Application Process

1. File Form I-526
This petition proves you have invested (or are actively in the process of investing) the required amount in a qualifying enterprise.

2. Conditional Green Card
Upon approval, you and immediate family members receive conditional permanent residency (valid for 2 years).

3. File Form I-829
Before the 2-year mark, submit evidence that the investment was sustained and the jobs were created, to remove conditions on your Green Card.

Risks and Considerations

Investment Risk: Funds must be “at risk” – guaranteed returns or redemption contrive the spirit of the program.

Due Diligence: Not all projects succeed. Investigate the business or Regional Center project thoroughly.

Processing Times: EB-5 applications can face lengthy processing and backlogs for some countries (notably China, Vietnam).

Benefits of EB-5

No Sponsorship Needed: You’re investing your own money, so no need for an employer or family sponsor.

Broad Eligibility for Family: Your spouse and children (under 21) obtain Green Cards too.

Direct Path to Permanent Residency: Once conditions are removed, you have a standard 10-year Green Card, renewable indefinitely.

EB-5 investment amount EB-5 regional center program EB-5 visa processing time