What is EB-5? (Immigrant Investor Program)
EB-5 is the U.S. employment-based fifth preference immigrant visa category. It allows foreign investors to obtain permanent residence by making a qualifying investment in a new commercial enterprise that creates at least 10 full-time U.S. jobs. Under the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, current minimum investment amounts are US$800,000 (for TEA or infrastructure projects) or US$1,050,000 (non-TEA). Investments through USCIS-designated regional centers may count indirect jobs (up to 90%) toward job creation, while non-regional-center investments must create direct jobs. Each fiscal year, EB-5 includes reserved visa set-asides: 20% rural, 10% high-unemployment, 2% infrastructure; the Regional Center Program is authorized through Sept. 30, 2027.
EB-5 Key Facts
Last updated: Aug 29, 2025 | For general information only (not investment/legal/immigration advice)
* Minimum investment: US$800,000 (TEA/infrastructure) or US$1,050,000 (non-TEA).
* Job creation: At least 10 full-time positions (~35 hrs/week).
* TEA: Rural or high-unemployment (≥150% of U.S. average) areas.
* Models: Regional center investments may count indirect jobs; direct investments require direct jobs.
* Visa set-asides & validity: Includes reserved categories (e.g., rural/high-unemployment/infrastructure); program currently active.
** For authoritative requirements, please refer to the official guidance published by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Consult a qualified professional before making any decisions.
Key Highlights of the New EB-5 Policy Leverage Policy Incentives for Accelerated Green Card Acquisition
• TEA Designation: 1,000 visas reserved annually, exempt from visa backlog
• Concurrent Filing Policy: I-526 and I-485 may be filed simultaneously, enabling expedited issuance of work permits and advance parole
• Visa Rollover Provision: Unused visa numbers can be carried over to the following year, increasing overall approval opportunities
