Understanding the Eb5 Green Card Processing Time

The EB5 green card processing time is different than other green card processes. Before you

choose to invest, it is key to understand how long each section of the process takes and what to

expect. Here is what you need to know about the process: 

Checking Eligibility

After you’ve researched and decided to go through the EB5 green card process, check to see if

you are eligible. The process may take longer, depending on your personal circumstances and

documentation. You can choose a regional center to help increase the speed of this process.

Some regional centers have eligibility checkers on their websites. You can also find eligibility

requirements on the USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) website. 

Gathering Documents

Once you’ve determined your eligibility, gather the required documents. This can be a lengthy

process and should be completed diligently as specifications surrounding documents can be

strict. There are two areas where you’ll need to gather documents, personal documents and

documents regarding the project you’re investing in. Here are some of the documents you’ll need

to gather: 

Personal Documents: 

 Passports (you and your family members)

 Household registration

 Past immigration applications

 Copies of judgment for any criminal or civil actions 

 Past five years of tax returns (personal and business)

 Past five years of bank statements

 Proof of investment funds

 Financial statements for all business 

 Evidence investment funds were obtained lawfully

Project Documents: 

 Information to demonstrate that you invested in a specific regional center as stated in an

approved business plan.

 Proof that your investment has been made in a TEA (targeted employment area)

 Evidence that your investment has made ten or more full-time positions

Gathering these documents can take some time. If you choose to work with a regional center,

they should be able to provide the required project documentation. You should give yourself

enough time to gather all of your documents and time to fix any mistakes that may have

occurred. 

Filing I-526E

After all the documents are gathered, applying for an I-526 E with an immigration attorney is the

next step. Your immigration attorney can give you an estimated timeline for approval. The time

it takes to approve your application may change depending on when and where you send your

documents. You can also find updates on your application through the USCIS website. 

Moving to the U.S.

After you gain approval for a conditional green card, you can prepare to move to the United

States. With the EB5 green card, you can live, work, and travel anywhere in the States. While in

the U.S. with a conditional green card, you receive the same rights as other lawful citizens. 

Once your conditional green card is set to expire, you are able to apply for an I-829 petition. This

petition removes the conditions on your green card. This application processing time can also

vary, depending on the terms of your citizenship. After approval, your green card becomes

permanent. 

Becoming a Citizen

You can apply to become a citizen of the United States five years after conditions are removed

from your green card. As a citizen, you are able to vote and are entitled to certain benefits, like

holding public office. This process can take up to five years. You can become a citizen through

naturalization and maintaining a physical presence in the United States. You can contact your

immigration attorney to find which way fits best with your EB5 green card. 

Streamlining Processes

Consider giving yourself a timeline you’d prefer to follow. You can streamline your process by

verifying that you meet deadlines, hiring an immigration attorney, and working with a regional

center. Avoid delays by giving yourself enough time to correct mistakes. Try to remain

organized to make sure each document is being sent in a timely manner. If you have any

questions regarding the investment process, don't hesitate to ask. This will help you complete the

process quickly and efficiently. 

EB5 Green Card Process

There are many different variables that can determine your EB5 green card processing time.

Consider contacting a regional center to get a better understanding of the timeline. You can help

streamline the process by staying organized and giving yourself time to find and fix mistakes.

Contact a regional center to get started on your green card application.