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.
