EB-5 Green Card Process 2025 – Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Determine Eligibility and Investment Criteria

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
• Investment Amount: $1.05 million in a standard area or $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA).
• Lawful Source of Funds: Must prove that the investment funds were obtained lawfully.

Choose Investment Type

• Direct Investment: Investing directly in a business that creates at least 10 full-time jobs.
• Regional Center Investment: Investing in a USCIS-approved Regional Center project that indirectly creates jobs.

Step 2: Select an EB-5 Project

Research and Due Diligence

• Project Viability: Assess the business plan, financial projections, and market analysis.
• Regional Center Track Record: Review the history and performance of the Regional Center.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure the project complies with all EB-5 requirements.

Secure Investment Funds

Transfer the required investment amount to the chosen project’s escrow account or directly to the business.

Step 3: File Form I-526 (Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor)

Prepare Documentation

• Proof of Investment: Provide evidence of the investment amount and its lawful source.
• Business Plan: Detailed business plan demonstrating how the investment will create at least 10 full-time jobs.
• Regional Center Affiliation: If applicable, documentation showing the project’s affiliation with a Regional Center.

Submit Form I-526

File Form I-526 with USCIS, including all supporting documentation.

USCIS Review

USCIS