$800,000 if the project is in a Targeted Employment Area or is a qualifying Infrastructure Project.
Each investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for qualifying U.S. workers.
Investors must provide a clear "paper trail" proving that their capital was obtained through lawful means.
To reduce wait times for investors from high-demand countries like China and India, the RIA sets aside:
20% of visas for Rural projects.
10% for High-Unemployment areas.
2% for Infrastructure projects.
If an investor is already in the U.S. on another visa (like H-1B or F-1), they can file their EB-5 petition (I-526E) and their Green Card application (I-485) at the same time. This allows them to get a work permit (EAD) and travel document (Advance Parole) immediately.
Regional Centers must now undergo audits every 5 years, and all promoters/brokers must be registered with USCIS.
Most investors prefer Regional Centers because they allow for a passive role. The center manages the project, and the investor does not need to handle daily operations.
Unlike "Direct" EB-5 investments (where you must hire 10 W-2 employees directly), Regional Center projects can count indirect and induced jobs (e.g., jobs created in the local supply chain or by employees spending their wages). This significantly lowers the risk of failing the job-creation requirement.
After 5 years of permanent residence, investors can apply for U.S. citizenship.
The Green Card covers the investor, their spouse, and any unmarried children under age 21.
No need for an employer sponsor; you can live, work, or retire anywhere in the U.S.
Creates thousands of American jobs at no cost to the government.
Funds critical infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and manufacturing plants.
