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EB-5 Timeline

  • EB-5 Visa Guide: Requirements & Timeline

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program continues to be a popular pathway for foreign nationals seeking permanent residency in the United States through investment. With updated regulations and streamlined processes introduced in recent years, interest in the program remains high, particularly among investors from Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.

The EB-5 visa allows eligible investors and their immediate family members to obtain green cards by investing in U.S.-based enterprises that create jobs. However, the program involves strict eligibility criteria and a multi-stage application process that can span several years.

 

✧ Key EB-5 Visa Requirements in 2025

▸  Minimum Investment Amount

As of 2025, investors must commit:

  • $1,050,000 for standard investments, or
  • $800,000 if investing in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), which includes rural regions or areas with high unemployment.

These thresholds were set by the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 and are subject to periodic inflation adjustments.

 

▸ Job Creation Requirement

The investment must lead to the creation of at least 10 full-time jobs for qualifying U.S. workers. This requirement must be fulfilled within two years of the investor receiving conditional permanent resident status.

  • Direct Investments: Jobs must be directly created by the enterprise.
  • Regional Center Investments: Allows for indirect job creation, offering greater flexibility.

 

▸ Investment Must Be At-Risk

The capital must be actively invested and at risk for profit or loss. Passive investments or guaranteed returns do not meet program criteria.

 

▸ Proof of Lawful Source of Funds

Investors must provide detailed documentation demonstrating that their investment capital was obtained lawfully. This may include bank statements, tax returns, sale agreements, or inheritance records.

 

▸ Business Type

The investment must be made in a new commercial enterprise — either newly established or significantly restructured after November 29, 1990.

EB-5 Visa Application Timeline

The EB-5 process is multi-phased and can take several years from initial investment to full permanent residency.

Step 1: Investment and I-526E Petition (3–6 months)

  • Investors select a qualifying project and commit the necessary funds.
  • File Form I-526E (for Regional Center projects) or I-526 for direct investments.

Step 2: Petition Review and Approval (12–24 months)

  • USCIS reviews the petition, including source of funds, project compliance, and job creation plans.
  • Upon approval, applicants either:
    • File Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) if in the S., or
    • Undergo consular processing if abroad.

Step 3: Conditional Permanent Residency (2 years)

  • Approved applicants and their families receive a 2-year conditional green card.
  • The investor must maintain the investment and ensure job creation occurs.

Step 4: Removal of Conditions (21–24 months after receiving green card)

  • File Form I-829, demonstrating that the investment was sustained and jobs were
  • Approval leads to permanent resident status.

Step 5: Full Permanent Green Card (6–12 months post I-829)

  • A 10-year renewable green card is issued to the investor and eligible.

 

Expected Total Processing Time

 On average, the entire EB-5 process takes 4 to 7 years, though timelines vary depending on country of origin, USCIS processing speed, and project complexity.

Ready to Start Your EB-5 Journey?

Let U.S. Visa India Services, handle the complexities so you can focus on your future. With over 7 years of experience and a proven success record, we are your trusted partner in achieving U.S. residency through the EB-5 Program.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started on your EB-5 petition with confidence.

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