Visas and green cards represent significant investments made on the part of the beneficiary. However, the EB-5 green card is even more of an investment. In this guide, we’ll go over the EB-5 cost and what you can expect from a financial perspective.
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EB-5 Costs
When it comes to the actual green card processing cost for the EB-5, the fees will depend on the route you take, as there is a difference in cost between adjustment of status and consular processing. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for each route:
Adjustment of Status
- $3,675 I-526 form filing fee
- For those applying through a regional center, an additional $1,000 must be paid.
- $1,440 for the I-485 adjustment of status application form.
Consular Processing
- Form I-526/I-526E: $3,675 (plus $1,000 if Regional Center)
- DS-260 (Online Immigrant Visa Application): $345
Other EB-5 Costs
You should also calculate any travel expenses or attorney fees associated with the EB-5 process. Travel expenses may be more if you must undergo consular processing.
What is the Capital Required?
One major expense to factor into your EB-5 cost is the actual investment on which the green card is based. To qualify, you will need to invest at least $1,050,000 in a U.S. enterprise. Alternatively, you can invest $800,000 in a Target Employment Area (TEA), which is defined as “a rural area or one that has experienced high unemployment of at least 150 percent of the national average.”
The invested money must be yours and must have been acquired legally, but you do not need to prove that you earned the money (e.g. it was a gift or inheritance). However, this capital is less of an EB-5 cost, as the idea of an investment is for it to grow and for you to receive a return on your investment.
EB-5 Regional Centers
If you are more interested in gaining your lawful permanent residence than in operating and managing a U.S. enterprise, EB-5 regional centers may be the best option for you.
Rather than have you be responsible for the creation of a new enterprise and the jobs that need to come from that, you can choose to invest your money in a Regional Center, which is essentially a company that is dedicated to economic and job market growth. These entities tend to work mostly through the capital granted by EB-5 investors, creating projects through the EB-5 program.