- What it is
- Green card through investment in a U.S. business
- Best for
- Investors who can put money into a job-creating business
- Job offer needed?
- No
- Investment needed?
- Yes. About $1,050,000, or about $800,000 in a targeted area
- Leads to
- Permanent residence (green card)
- Typical timeline
- Varies by country and processing
What is the EB-5?
The EB-5 lets you get a green card by investing in a U.S. business that creates jobs. The idea is simple. You put money into the economy, that money helps create real jobs, and in return you and your family can become permanent residents.
You can invest directly into your own business, or through a regional center, which is a group that pools investor money into larger projects. Either way, your investment must create at least 10 full-time U.S. jobs.
Who is it for?
The EB-5 is for people who have the money to invest and want a green card without needing an employer or a job offer. It suits investors, business owners, and families who want to live in the U.S. and can meet the investment rules.
What you need to qualify
- An investment of about $1,050,000, or about $800,000 if the business is in a targeted employment area, meaning a rural or high-unemployment area.
- Proof the money came from a lawful source.
- The business must create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
- Your investment must be at risk, meaning it is a real investment, not a loan back to yourself.
How the process works
- Make your investment and file the petition (Form I-526E or I-526).
- Wait for a visa to be available. Your priority date is your place in line, and the wait depends on your country.
- Get a conditional green card, valid for two years. File to adjust status if you are in the U.S., or finish at a U.S. consulate if you are abroad.
- Later, file to remove the conditions once the jobs and investment are shown, to get the full green card.
How much it costs
The big number is the investment itself, about $1,050,000 or about $800,000 in a targeted area. These amounts are set by law and can change. On top of that, government filing fees run into the thousands, and attorney fees are separate. Regional center projects may add their own fees. Treat all figures as general and confirm current amounts.
How long it takes
Timelines vary. The petition can take a while to process, and your total wait depends on your home country and visa availability. Remember the green card starts as conditional for two years before you get the permanent one.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not documenting where your money came from. This is a common reason cases stall.
- Choosing a project without checking if it can really create the 10 jobs.
- Assuming the investment amount is fixed. It is set by law and can change.
- Skipping the step to remove conditions, which is needed for the full green card.
Is the EB-5 right for you?
If you can make the investment and want a green card for your whole family without an employer, the EB-5 is a strong option. It is a big financial step, so it is worth careful planning. A quick check can help you see if it fits your goals.
Common questions
Can my family get green cards too?
Yes. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can be included in your EB-5 case.
What is a targeted employment area?
It is a rural area or an area with high unemployment. Investing there lowers the required amount to about $800,000.
What is a regional center?
It is an approved group that pools investor money into larger projects. It can make meeting the job rules easier, but you should review the project carefully.
Why is the green card conditional at first?
The first green card lasts two years. Once you show the investment and jobs are real, you file to remove the conditions and get the permanent green card.
Wondering if you qualify for a green card?
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