EB-5 for Investors
A data driven framework for evaluating the EB-5 investor visa. Use the resources below to understand costs, timelines, and country specific considerations before making any investment decisions.
Should I Consider EB-5?
Before evaluating specific projects or categories, consider three foundational questions.
Do I have $800,000+ in documented, lawfully sourced funds?
The minimum investment is $800,000 for targeted employment area (TEA) projects or $1,050,000 for standard projects. You must be able to document the lawful source of all capital.
Do I want permanent U.S. residence without a U.S. employer sponsor?
EB-5 is one of the few immigration categories that does not require an employer sponsor, a specific degree, or professional credentials. The investor and immediate family receive green cards.
Am I prepared for a 2 to 7 year process?
The EB-5 timeline varies by category and country of birth. Reserved categories (rural, high unemployment) typically process faster. Country specific backlogs affect unreserved category wait times.
If you answered yes to all three, EB-5 may be a viable path. Review the full eligibility requirements.
Understand the Costs
$800,000
TEA minimum investment
$1,050,000
Standard minimum investment
$70K to $135K
Typical additional fees
Total costs include USCIS filing fees, legal fees, administrative fees, and project specific charges beyond the capital investment. Use the cost calculator for a personalized estimate.
Understand the Timeline
11 to 24 mo
Reserved categories (rural, HUA)
24 to 52 mo
Unreserved categories
2 to 7 yr
Total process (filing to permanent card)
Processing times vary significantly by category, country of birth, and case complexity. Reserved categories generally offer faster processing due to dedicated visa allocations.
Choose Your Path
Regional Center vs. Direct
Compare the two EB-5 structural approaches: job counting, management requirements, fees, and risk profiles.
TEA Categories Compared
Rural, high unemployment, and infrastructure set asides: visa allocation, backlog status, and strategic considerations.
Rural Advantage
Why rural TEA projects currently offer the fastest processing and lowest backlog risk.
Your Country
Visa bulletin backlogs and processing considerations vary by country of birth. Select your country for a detailed overview.
Compare to Other Visas
Neutral, data driven comparisons of EB-5 against other immigration pathways.
Grandfathering Deadline: September 30, 2026
EB-5 investment minimums are projected to increase significantly after this date due to CPI-U adjustments. Investors who file before the deadline lock in current thresholds. The estimated increase is approximately $80,000 to $105,000 depending on category.
Read the full grandfathering analysisTrack your EB-5 timeline
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