USCIS Completes Backlog of EB-5 FOIA Requests, Exceeds Transparency Goals

USCIS announced on November 5, 2025 that it has completed processing of the backlog of EB-5 program FOIA requests accumulated during late 2024 and early 2025. The agency exceeded its transparency goals and processed more than 950 requests related to EB-5 program statistics during the acceleration initiative that concluded in October 2025. The accelerated processing was achieved through temporary staffing increases and prioritization of requests for aggregate program data versus individual case information.

USCIS also announced implementation of expedited processing procedures for FOIA requests seeking aggregate program statistics, reducing standard processing timelines from 45 to 20 days for this category of requests. The expedited processing category includes requests for program statistics by service center, country of origin, TEA category, and fiscal year. The agency indicated that this streamlined approach will support transparency objectives while allowing continued careful handling of requests involving individual case information.

USCIS indicated that increased FOIA activity regarding EB-5 program statistics reflects strong researcher and practitioner interest in program data and trends. The agency committed to continued transparent information sharing and noted that regular statistical releases will continue to support stakeholder access to program information.