How Much Do You Need to Invest for an EB-5 Visa?

To qualify for the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, you must invest either $800,000 or $1,050,000 in a U.S. business. The exact amount depends on where the business is located and whether it falls within a Targeted Employment Area (TEA)—a rural or high-unemployment region.

Current EB-5 Investment Requirements:

• $800,000: For businesses in TEAs (rural or high-unemployment areas)

• $1,050,000: For businesses outside TEAs

In both cases, your investment must create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers within two years.

What Qualifies as a Targeted Employment Area?

A TEA is either:

• A rural area outside metro regions or cities with populations under 20,000, or

• A high-unemployment area with at least 150% of the national average unemployment rate

Investing in a TEA qualifies you for the lower $800,000 threshold, but proper documentation is required.

What Are the EB-5 Job Creation Requirements?

Your investment must generate:

• 10 full-time direct jobs if you invest directly in your own business

• Direct or indirect jobs if investing through a USCIS-approved Regional Center

Regional Centers allow for indirect job creation, making the process easier for many investors.

What Type of Investment Qualifies?

• The investment must be in a new commercial enterprise (established after Nov. 29, 1990)

• Funds must be “at risk”—no guaranteed returns allowed

• Capital must come from a lawful source, with full documentation required

Direct vs. Regional Center Investments:

• Direct Investment: You manage or own the business and oversee job creation

• Regional Center Investment: You invest in a pooled project and do not manage daily operations. Most EB-5 investors prefer this option due to its flexibility.

Additional Costs to Consider:

• Filing Fees: USCIS charges $3,675 for Form I-526, plus other application and petition fees

• Legal Fees: Attorney services generally range from $15,000 to $25,000

• Regional Center Admin Fees: Often between $50,000–$70,000

Timeline and Green Card Process:

After investing and filing the I-526 petition:

1. You’ll receive a 2-year conditional green card if approved

2. Within 90 days of expiration, file Form I-829 to remove conditions

3. Upon approval, receive a 10-year permanent green card

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 are included in the same petition.