Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the EB-5 investor visa. This visa is a key part of the U.S. immigration process, particularly for those interested in investment-based immigration. 

The EB-5 investor visa is a U.S. permanent resident visa program that grants green cards to foreign investors who meet certain criteria. If you're a foreign investor, this visa could be your ticket to permanent residency in the U.S. Along with you, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can also receive permanent resident status if you meet the requirements. 

This article is designed to educate potential applicants, immigration attorneys, and anyone interested in understanding the U.S. immigration process. We'll provide comprehensive information about the EB-5 investor visa, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, costs, and frequently asked questions. 

Whether you're a potential applicant for the EB-5 investor visa or an immigration attorney looking to expand your knowledge, this guide is for you. Let's dive in and explore the world of the EB-5 investor visa.

The EB-5 investor visa is a unique program that offers a pathway to U.S. permanent residency for foreign investors. But what exactly does it entail, and what are its benefits? Let's break it down.

The EB-5 investor visa program allows foreign investors to receive a green card, granting them permanent residency in the U.S. This is not just limited to the investor. Their spouse and unmarried children under 21 can also receive permanent resident status, making it a family-inclusive program.

One of the key benefits of the EB-5 investor visa is that it provides a direct route to a green card, unlike other visa categories that require a U.S. employer or family member to sponsor the applicant. This independence can offer a significant advantage for many investors.

The business in which you invest must be a [for-profit entity](https://www.uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-6-part-g-chapter-2^). This can include a wide range of structures such as a corporation, joint venture, business trust, sole proprietorship, holding company, partnership, or other publicly or privately owned structure. The investment can be in the form of cash, equipment, inventory, other property, or secured debt. 

In essence, the EB-5 investor visa offers a unique opportunity for foreign investors to gain permanent residency in the U.S. by investing in its economy and creating jobs. It's a win-win situation for both the investor and the U.S. economy.

III. Eligibility Criteria for the EB-5 Investor Visa

To qualify for the EB-5 investor visa, there are specific requirements that you must meet. Let's go through these eligibility criteria one by one.

Firstly, there's the [investment requirement](/immigration-resources/eb-5-investor-visa-guide). You must invest a minimum of $1.8 million in a U.S. business. However, if the business is in a targeted employment area (TEA), which is either a rural area or an area with high unemployment, the minimum investment amount is reduced to $900,000. This reduction is designed to encourage investment in areas that need it the most.

Secondly, there's the [job creation requirement](https://www.uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-6-part-g-chapter-2^). Your investment must create or maintain at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. These jobs must be created within two years of your investment. This requirement ensures that your investment contributes to the U.S. economy by creating employment opportunities.

Thirdly, the business you invest in must be a for-profit entity. This can be a corporation, joint venture, business trust, sole proprietorship, holding company, partnership, or other publicly or privately owned structure. The aim here is to ensure that your investment contributes to the growth of the U.S. economy.

Lastly, the investment can be in the form of [cash, equipment, inventory, other tangible property, or secured debt](https://www.uscis.gov/policy-manual/volume-6-part-g-chapter-2^). However, you must be able to prove that these assets were obtained legally.

In summary, to be eligible for the EB-5 investor visa, you must make a substantial investment in a U.S. business, create jobs, and ensure that your investment is in a for-profit entity. These requirements are designed to ensure that the EB-5 program benefits the U.S. economy while providing investors with a pathway to permanent residency.

IV. Application Process for the EB-5 Investor Visa

Now that we've covered the eligibility criteria, let's move on to the application process for the EB-5 investor visa. It's a multi-step process, and we'll guide you through each step.

**Step 1: File an Initial Petition (Form I-526)**

The first step in the application process is to file Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Investor. This form is used to demonstrate that you are in the process of investing, or have already invested the required amount of capital in a suitable U.S. business. You also need to prove that your investment will create or maintain at least 10 full-time jobs.

Once your I-526 petition is approved, you can apply for a green card. The process varies depending on whether you are currently living in the U.S. or abroad.

If your green card application is approved, you will receive a conditional green card valid for 2 years. The 'conditional' status means that you must meet certain obligations to maintain your status and to qualify for a permanent green card.

**Step 4: Remove Conditions on Green Card (Form I-829)**

In the 90 days before your conditional green card expires, you must file Form I-829, Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status. This is the final step in the EB-5 visa process. If approved, the conditions will be removed from your status, and you will become a lawful permanent resident of the U.S.

Remember, each step in the application process has specific requirements and deadlines. It's crucial to understand these requirements and to submit all forms and supporting documents in a timely manner.

V. Costs Associated with the EB-5 Investor Visa

Applying for the EB-5 investor visa involves certain costs. Let's break down these costs to give you a clear understanding of the financial commitment involved.

The total cost for an EB-5 investor visa ranges from $4020 to $4,900. This cost variation depends on where you are filing from. 

**1. Filing Fee for Form I-526:** The filing fee for the initial petition (Form I-526) is $3,675. This fee is paid when you submit the form to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

**2. Biometric Services Fee:** If you are between the ages of 14 and 79 and are applying from within the U.S., you will also need to pay an $85 biometric services fee.

**3. Visa Application Fee:** If you are applying from outside the U.S., you will need to pay a $345 visa application fee to the U.S. Department of State.

**4. Green Card Application Fee:** If you are applying from within the U.S., you will need to pay a $1,225 fee to USCIS when you submit your green card application (Form I-485).

**5. Filing Fee for Form I-829:** The filing fee for Form I-829, which is used to remove the conditions on your green card, is $3,750.

Remember, these are just the government [filing fees](https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/permanent-workers/eb-5-immigrant-investor-program^). You may also need to consider other costs such as attorney fees, business appraisal fees, and other related expenses. It's important to budget for these costs when planning your EB-5 investment.

A targeted employment area (TEA) is either a rural area or an area with high unemployment. Investing in a business in a TEA reduces the minimum investment amount from $1.8 million to $900,000.

Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can also receive permanent resident status through your EB-5 investor visa application.

The business you invest in must be a for-profit entity. This can include a corporation, joint venture, business trust, sole proprietorship, holding company, partnership, or other publicly or privately owned structure.

The investment can be in the form of cash, equipment, inventory, other tangible property, or secured debt. However, you must be able to prove that these assets were obtained legally.

If you fail to create or maintain at least 10 full-time jobs within two years of your investment, you may not meet the requirements to remove the conditions on your green card.

The conditional green card is valid for 2 years. In the 90 days before it expires, you must file Form I-829 to remove the conditions on your green card.

Once the conditions are removed, you become a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. You will need to [renew your green card](/immigration-resources/renew-replace-expired-green-card-guide) every 10 years.

VI. Frequently Asked Questions about the EB-5 Investor Visa

What is a targeted employment area (TEA)?

Can I include my family in my EB-5 application?

What types of businesses can I invest in?

What happens if I don't create 10 jobs within two years?

How long is the conditional green card valid for?

What happens after the conditions are removed from my green card?

We've covered a lot of ground in this comprehensive guide to the EB-5 investor visa. From understanding what the visa is, to the eligibility criteria, application process, costs, and frequently asked questions, we hope this guide has provided you with a clear and detailed understanding of the EB-5 investor visa.

The EB-5 investor visa is a unique opportunity for foreign investors to gain permanent residency in the U.S. by investing in its economy and creating jobs. It's a win-win situation for both the investor and the U.S. economy.

Remember, while this guide provides a comprehensive overview, the U.S. immigration process can be complex and it's always a good idea to consult with an immigration attorney or expert to understand the specifics of your situation.

Whether you're a potential applicant for the EB-5 investor visa, an immigration attorney, or just someone interested in understanding the U.S. immigration process, we hope this guide has been informative and helpful. 

As you embark on your journey towards obtaining an EB-5 investor visa, we wish you the best of luck. Your investment not only opens up a world of opportunities for you and your family but also contributes to the growth and prosperity of the U.S. economy.

Interested in investing in a U.S. business and obtaining permanent residency? The EB-5 Investor Visa may be your solution. This visa offers green cards to foreign investors and their families who meet certain requirements. By investing $1.8 million, or $900,000 in a targeted employment area, you can create jobs for U.S. workers and secure your residency. This guide will help you understand the process, meet deadlines, and navigate eligibility criteria.

EB-5 Investor Visa: A Guide for Foreign Investors

After you've filled the application, our expert team reviews your entries to maximize your chance of success before submission. Or if you want to avoid our online application, you can speak with our professionals who can fill your application while they are on the phone with you.

Here are the steps to apply for your visa.

Whether your goal is to get your Green Card or just to get a Visa for the United States, you've came to the right place. Our expert consultants are here to make the process easy on you and to maximize your chance of success of your United States Visa approval.

We know that the process is complicated and it can be hard to get started. With our easy to use technology, My-Visa-UAS lets you get started applying for your United States Visa today. Every applicant receives a personalized review of their application by our team of experts before submission to ensure that your application is correct and to maximize your chance of success.

Personalized U.S. Visa Consulting and Service

1 out of every 3 VISA applications for the United States are denied, and this is usually due to oversights and not having the necessary support. Our combination of an online application and expert human review maximizes your change of success.

When you apply in your language, you will save countless time and effort. In addition, by ensuring that your application is correct, you will avoid delays and the need to reapply.

Most Visa assistance services charge hundreds of dollars for their services. Our service is much cheaper and more efficient. Save your money for your trip to the United States by applying with our service.

By using our service, you greatly reduce the risk of clerical errors and your application being denied. Our experts will review your application and ensure that it is correct.

When you enroll in our service, we'll keep you up to date with any updates to your Visa application through text message or email. You will also receive a guide with tips for your interview, and we'll even schedule the interview for you.

If your application is rejected for any clerical error (which happens in 1-2 weeks), we'll help you apply again immediately at no additional cost. Our custom service is our number 1 priority, and we work tirelessly to help ensure that your application is approved.

Our advisors are available to help you get your visa to the United States and your can begin anytime.

Are you ready to apply for your Visa to the United States?

Increase the Chance of Your Visa Being Approved

Save Precious Time

Save Your Money

Rest Assured

Stay informed

Unlimited Re-Applications

What Are The Benefits?

'The experience with My-Visa-USA was incredible. Not only was it very affordable, but their online form was easy to use and saved a lot of time. I appreciate the entire My-Visa-USA team for making the visa application process so straightforward. Now, thanks to their help, I am happily living in the United States.'

'I am very grateful to My-Visa-USA. The visa application process was easy and efficient. I saved a lot of money and time. Their customer service was also exceptional; they were always available to answer all my questions. Thank you, My-Visa-USA!'

'My-Visa-USA made the visa application process incredibly easy. I didn't have to deal with long phone calls or visit a physical office. The online form was simple and affordable. Thanks to My-Visa-USA, I can now fulfill my dream of studying in the United States.'

'Applying for a visa always seemed like a complicated and expensive process, but with My-Visa-USA, it was the opposite. The process was simple, efficient, and most importantly, affordable. I am very grateful to My-Visa-USA for making this dream come true.'

'I am impressed with the ease and speed of the visa application process with My-Visa-USA. Their team of experts was very helpful and always available to answer my questions. And all of this at a lower price than other services. I will definitely recommend My-Visa-USA to my friends and family.'

My-Visa-USA provides a personalized, affordable, and efficient US Visa consulting and application service. Apply for various types of US visas, including tourism, business, immigration, study, and humanitarian in your native language. Maximize your chance of success with our expert review and guidance throughout the process. Start your US Visa journey today with My-Visa-USA!

My-Visa-USA is not affiliated with any United States government agency and does not represent any government entity, embassies, or consulates. Our services include advice and assistance throughout the visa application, immigration, or citizenship process. However, the final decision on the visa application is made by the Consular Officer of the United States Embassy or Consulate.

Our company specializes in consultancy for obtaining US visas. We provide support services and handle the paperwork on your behalf. In addition, we have experts dedicated to each step of the process to increase your chances of approval for the US visa.

No, although we have the experience of several immigration lawyers with whom we work, we do not offer legal services. We only provide you with digital tools and proven expertise to increase your chances of acquiring the US visa. If you need legal advice, we can put you in touch with one of our associated lawyers.

The duration depends on several factors, including the capacity of the United States Embassy or Consulate in your country.

The fee required by the United States government is paid whether the visa is accepted or not, and it is non-refundable. Our advice aims to increase the likelihood of your visa being approved.

If there is not enough time for you to be granted a visa, or if you prefer not to apply for one, it is preferable that your company changes the route and chooses one that does not go through the United States.

The possibility of obtaining a visa more quickly depends on: 1. The need to travel due to the death of an immediate relative or serious illness, 2. You or a minor child requiring urgent medical treatment, 3. Attending an urgent business meeting, 4. Making an unexpected visit for various reasons. To learn about other cases in which you may be able to travel more quickly, start the visa application process, or request more information, do not hesitate to contact us.

Are you affiliated with the United States Embassy?

Why should get my Visa with My-USA-Visa?

Is My-Visa-USA a law firm?

How long does it take to obtain a US visa?

If my visa is denied, will I get a refund?

My flight is tomorrow, can I apply for a transit visa?

Can I get a visa sooner?

Not sure if you qualify?

Select the reason for your trip:

Our service is quick, cheap, and easy to use. Our experienced team will assist you from application to interview

You can get a head start filling in the details we need to process your application

Start Applying for Your United States Visa Today

Ready to Get Started?

Click the 'Sign Up' button at the top of the page, and enter your email to register an account.

Answer questions about yourself and your past after creating your account. We will use your responses to put together your U.S. Visa Applicaton.

Make your payment in the 'Payment' page of the online portal when you are ready to submit your application. We accept all major credit cards.

After reviewing your entries in the My-Visa-USA application, we'll fill the real application for you. You'll just need to sign it and submit it.

If an interview is necessary (in some circumstances it is not), we'll schedule your interview for you at any United States Embassy worldwide that you choose.

Assuming you have had a successful application process, which 9/10 applicants do, you'll receive your visa and be ready to travel to the United States!

Create an Account

Enter your information in the portal

Make Payment

Finalize Your Real Application

Attend Your Interview

Receive Your Visa

The Secure Route to Your Visa

Hear From Satistfied Customers

My-Visa-USA: Quick, Cheap, Easy United States Visa Application Service

Learn the ins and outs of the Visa Application process while you fill out the form in your native language. When you're finished, we'll ensure its accuracy and assist you in signing and sending your official application.

Start Your Visa Journey Today: Use Our Guided Service

An expert visa consultant reviews every part of your application before submission. You'll get assistance with difficult sections, preparing necessary documents, interview preparation, and more.

With My-Visa-USA, you have access to expert visa consultants and immigration consultants. We know the system well and will help you avoid mistakes and problems applying for the U.S. Visa

Don't bother with the hassle of filling tedious government forms in a foreign langugae. With our easy-to-use system, just answer some questions about yourself and handle putting together your official application. 

Our team is available to you 7 days a weeks. Reach out to a friendly customer service representative with any questions you may have.

Personalized Assistance

An Experienced Team

Easy-To-Use Tools

Professional Customer Service

US Visa & Immigration Blog

Immigration Resources

US Visa & Immigration News

Visa, TPS, and Humanitarian Parole services coming soon!

Enter your email address below to receive the latest news and updates from us. We will keep you updated any news, updates, or changes in the Visa application process.