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Oct 21, 2025

EB-5 Visa: The Path to a Green Card Through Investment

Chicago view
Chicago view
Chicago view

What Is the EB-5 Visa

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program was established by the U.S. Congress in 1990 to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth. It grants the investor, their spouse, and unmarried children under 21 the right to obtain permanent residency in the United States.

To qualify, an applicant must invest in a new or existing business and demonstrate that the investment will create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Investment Requirements

The minimum investment amount depends on the project’s location:

  • From $800,000 — if the business is located in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), meaning a region with high unemployment or a rural area.

  • From $1,050,000 — for investments made in non-TEA regions.

Investors can either fund their own enterprise directly or invest through a USCIS-approved Regional Center, which manages large-scale projects and oversees job creation.

Key Benefits of the EB-5 Visa

  • Green Card for the entire family — the investor’s spouse and unmarried children under 21 receive permanent residency together with the main applicant.

  • No employer or sponsor required — full independence in the immigration process.

  • Freedom to live and work anywhere in the United States and to engage in any business activity.

  • Path to U.S. citizenship — eligible to apply five years after receiving the Green Card.

  • Potential return on investment — in some projects, funds may be repaid after the required investment period.

Processing Timeline

  1. Document preparation and investment: 1–3 months

  2. Filing Form I-526E (Investor Petition): typically reviewed within 12–24 months

  3. Conditional Green Card: issued for 2 years after petition approval

  4. Filing Form I-829: to remove conditions by proving that the required jobs have been created

  5. Permanent Green Card: granted upon approval of Form I-829

Conclusion

The EB-5 Visa is more than just an investment opportunity — it’s a chance to build a new life in the United States on a legal and secure foundation. It’s ideal for those ready to invest in the American economy and, in return, gain stability, confidence, and a brighter future for the entire family.

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© 2025 iConsulting.law

Contacts

175 E Olive Ave, Suite 200, Burbank, CA 91502

© 2025 iConsulting.law