EB-5 Immigrant Investor Process
The EB-5 immigration process involves three major stages:
Stage 1
Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur (I-526)
At this stage, the EB-5 Processing Center at the California Service Center primarily and thoroughly examines the documents relating to the source of the investment funds and if the investment has been actually made into the new commercial enterprise. It is critical to provide evidence that the investment funds have been obtained through lawful means. For a more detailed explanation about this form, please visit www.USCIS.gov/I-526.
Stage 2
Immigrant Visa Application or Adjustment of Status (I-485)
Once the I-526 petition is approved, the investor can now file for a U.S. green card in two ways. One way is through the U.S. Embassy at his/her country of permanent residence. The other way is by filing for an adjustment of status application in the United States. When an investor’s green card application is approved, s/he becomes a permanent resident of the U.S. However, it should be noted that it is a conditional green card with a valid period of only two (2) years. Before the expiration of the two-year period of the conditional green card, the investor must file separate a pplication to get the condition removed. For a more detailed explanation about this form, please visit www.USCIS.gov/I-485.
Stage 3
Application to Remove Condition (I-829)
An investor can file an application to get the condition removed ninety (90) days prior to the expiration of the conditional green card. When this application is approved, the investor and all his/her family members receive a permanent green card, which is valid for ten (10) years. For a more detailed explanation about this form, please visit www.USCIS.gov/I-829.