USCIS Announces Inflation Adjustment to EB-5 Investment Minimums Effective March 1, 2026

USCIS announced on February 15, 2026 that it is adjusting the minimum investment amounts for EB-5 petitions effective March 1, 2026, in response to cumulative inflation since the 2022 regulatory reforms. The new minimum for urban projects increases to $1,050,000 from $1,050,000, while rural and high unemployment area project minimums increase to $825,000, representing a $25,000 increase from the current $800,000 requirement.

The adjustment was developed through a Federal Register notice and comment period that concluded on January 31, 2026, with more than 180 submissions from regional centers, immigration attorneys, and investor organizations. USCIS indicated that the modest adjustment reflects a careful balance between program accessibility and appropriate investment levels. The agency further noted that applications filed prior to March 1, 2026 will be processed under current minimums, providing a transition period for pending cases.

Industry observers note that the adjustment is substantially below cumulative inflation projections, which some experts estimated could have justified increases of $50,000 to $100,000. The measured approach appears designed to maintain strong demand for the program while modestly improving the per-job-created investment ratio. Regional centers report mixed reactions, with some expressing relief at the modest increase and others noting that continued careful monitoring of inflation may necessitate further adjustments in future years.