EB-5: Immigrant Investor
Form I-526E | Employment-Based Fifth Preference (EB-5) Visa
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is a U.S. employment-based green card category that allows eligible foreign investors — and their spouses and unmarried children under 21 — to obtain lawful permanent residency (a green card) through a qualifying investment that creates jobs in the United States.
The program was designed by Congress to stimulate the U.S. economy through foreign capital investment and job creation. It offers one of the most direct pathways to a green card for investors and their immediate family members.
Who Qualifies for the EB-5 Visa?
To qualify for an EB-5 visa, an investor must:
✅ Invest the Required Capital Amount — Make a qualifying investment of at least $1,050,000 USD, or $800,000 USD if the investment is in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), which is either a rural area or an area with high unemployment.
✅ Invest in a New Commercial Enterprise (NCE) — Invest in a new or restructured for-profit U.S. business entity.
✅ Create or Preserve 10 Full-Time Jobs — The investment must directly or indirectly create or preserve at least ten full-time jobs for qualifying U.S. workers within two years of the immigrant investor’s admission to the United States as a Conditional Permanent Resident.
✅ Maintain an At-Risk Investment — The capital must be placed “at risk” for the purpose of generating a return on the capital placed at risk.
Direct vs. Regional Center Investments
Investors can pursue the EB-5 program through:
✅ Direct Investment:
Investing directly in and managing their own new commercial enterprise. The investor is actively involved in day-to-day operations or policy formation.
✅ Regional Center Investment:
Investing through a USCIS-approved Regional Center that pools EB-5 capital from multiple investors. This option allows job creation to be calculated both directly and indirectly, which can make meeting the job creation requirement more achievable for many investors.
Filing Process
Form I-526E Petition: The EB-5 process begins by filing Form I-526E, Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor (or I-526 for direct investment).
Investment Verification: Submit detailed documentation proving the source of investment funds, investment placement, and job creation plan.
Conditional Green Card: If approved, the investor and eligible family members receive a conditional two-year green card.
Form I-829 Petition: Within the 90-day period before the second anniversary of receiving conditional residency, the investor files Form I-829 to remove conditions by demonstrating the required jobs were created and the investment remained at risk.
Benefits of the EB-5 Visa
✅ Direct path to a U.S. green card for the investor, spouse, and unmarried children under 21
✅ No sponsorship by a U.S. employer or family member required
✅ Freedom to live, work, or retire anywhere in the United States
✅ Pathway to U.S. citizenship after five years as a permanent resident
✅ Opportunity to contribute to the U.S. economy and create American jobs
How USCIS Expert Helps
The EB-5 process is highly detailed and requires careful planning, strong documentation, and strict compliance with U.S. immigration and investment regulations. At USCIS Expert, we help you:
Evaluate your eligibility and investment options
Connect with reputable Regional Centers and EB-5 projects (if applicable)
Gather and prepare all required financial documentation and source of funds evidence
File your Form I-526E petition accurately and on time
Navigate consular processing or adjustment of status
Prepare and submit your Form I-829 to remove conditions when eligible
Stay compliant and informed every step of the way
Start Your U.S. Investment Journey Today
The EB-5 program provides a unique opportunity for investors and their families to secure permanent residency in the United States while contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
Contact USCIS Expert today to learn more about qualifying projects, eligibility requirements, and how we can guide you through every stage of your EB-5 investment and green card process with confidence.