I-131

An authorization document that permits a person to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad while an adjustment of status application is pending. Advance Parole does not guarantee admission; the holder must still be found admissible at the port of entry.

The official USCIS document confirming that an immigration petition or application has been approved. In the EB-5 context, the I-526E approval notice is the critical milestone that confirms the investment meets program requirements and establishes the priority date.

A scheduled appointment at a USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) where the applicant provides fingerprints, photographs, and a signature. Biometrics are required for most immigration applications, including I-485 and I-829. The biometric services fee is $85 per applicant.

The ability to track the progress of an immigration petition or application using the receipt number (a 13-character alphanumeric code beginning with three letters) through the USCIS online case status tool. The tool reports the current processing stage (received, initial review, request for evidence, approved, denied, etc.).

A card issued by USCIS that authorizes a non-citizen to work in the United States. In the EB-5 context, EADs are available to investors who have filed Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status). The EAD permits employment with any employer, unlike employer-specific work visas such as H-1B.