EB-5 Program Comparison Tool
Compare all four EB-5 investment categories side by side. See how Rural TEA, High Unemployment Area (HUA), Infrastructure, and Direct Investment differ across investment minimums, visa availability, processing priority, and more. All data is sourced from official USCIS and State Department publications.
EB-5 Pathway Comparison
| Dimension | Rural | HUA | Infra | Direct |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | $800,000 | $800,000 | $800,000 | $1,050,000 |
| Processing Priority | Priority | Standard | Standard | Standard |
| Visa Set Aside | 20% | 10% | 2% | 0% (Unreserved) |
| Current Backlog Status | Current | Current | Current | Current |
| I-526E Processing Time | Not available | Not available | Not available | Not available |
| Concurrent Filing | Available if visa is current | Available if visa is current | Available if visa is current | Available if visa is current |
| Job Creation Method | Indirect + Direct | Indirect + Direct | Indirect + Direct | Direct only |
| Investor Control | Low (Regional Center) | Low (Regional Center) | Low (Regional Center) | High |
| Regional Center Required | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Annual Visa Allocation | ~2,000 (20%) | ~1,000 (10%) | ~200 (2%) | ~6,800 (Unreserved) |
| Capital Return Timeline | 4 to 7 years typical | 4 to 7 years typical | 4 to 7 years typical | Varies by venture |
| USCIS Oversight Level | High (post RIA) | High (post RIA) | High (post RIA) | High (post RIA) |
Backlog status from the November 2026 Visa Bulletin. Processing times as of 2026-07-12.
This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Investment categories, processing times, and visa availability are subject to change. Consult an immigration attorney for case-specific guidance.
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