{"id":2817,"date":"2025-07-22T13:51:57","date_gmt":"2025-07-22T13:51:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/?p=2817"},"modified":"2025-10-22T13:53:08","modified_gmt":"2025-10-22T13:53:08","slug":"nows-the-time-what-to-know-about-the-eb-5-green-card-before-it-changes","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/nows-the-time-what-to-know-about-the-eb-5-green-card-before-it-changes\/","title":{"rendered":"Now\u2019s the Time: What to Know About the EB-5 Green Card Before it Changes"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1798\" height=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/07\/Now-is-the-time.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2820\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/07\/Now-is-the-time.jpg 1798w, https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/07\/Now-is-the-time-1280x854.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/07\/Now-is-the-time-980x654.jpg 980w, https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/07\/Now-is-the-time-480x320.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) and (max-width: 980px) 980px, (min-width: 981px) and (max-width: 1280px) 1280px, (min-width: 1281px) 1798px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The EB-5 green card is a United States immigrant visa that offers permanent residency to foreign nationals who make a qualifying investment in a U.S. business. Created to stimulate the American economy through job creation and capital investment, the EB-5 program allows investors and their immediate family members to live, work, and study anywhere in the U.S.<br><br>To qualify, applicants must invest a minimum of $800,000 in a targeted employment area (TEA) or $1,050,000 in a non-TEA business. The investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers within two years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits of the EB-5 Program<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The EB-5 program offers several advantages over other types of visas for those seeking U.S. residency through investment:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Permanent residency for the investor, their spouse, and unmarried children under 21<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No need for a U.S. sponsor or employer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Access to U.S. education, including public schools and universities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Eligibility for U.S. citizenship after five years of permanent residency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Passive investment opportunities through regional centers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>These benefits make the EB-5 green card an attractive option for investors looking for long-term security and greater freedom in the United States. With both personal and professional advantages, it is one of the most flexible immigration options available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Investment Options Under EB-5<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are two main investment paths available under the EB-5 program:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Direct investment:\u00a0<\/strong>Involves starting or purchasing a business and being actively involved in its operations. The business must create 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Regional center investment:<\/strong>\u00a0Allows investors to place funds into government-approved commercial projects. This option does not require day-to-day business management and is preferred by most applicants for its flexibility and simplicity.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Both options require a qualifying investment and a demonstrated commitment to job creation, but the right choice depends on each applicant\u2019s goals, experience, and desired level of involvement. Speaking with an immigration professional can help determine which path aligns best with a prospective investor\u2019s long-term plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A targeted employment area (TEA) is a region designated by the U.S. government to encourage investment in areas that need economic development. It can be either a rural area located outside large metropolitan regions and towns with populations under 20,000, or an area with a high unemployment rate, typically at least 150% of the national average. By investing in a TEA, applicants can qualify for the reduced minimum investment amount of $800,000. However, regardless of the location, the investment must still lead to the creation of at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers within two years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">EB-5 Process and Timeline<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While processing times vary based on the applicant\u2019s country of origin and USCIS workload, the EB-5 process typically takes 2 to 5 years. The general steps include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Filing the I-526 petition with an investment and job creation plan<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>USCIS review and petition approval<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Applying for a green card via consular processing or adjustment of status<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Receiving a two-year conditional green card<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Filing the I-829 petition to remove conditions and receive a 10-year renewable green card<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Long Is the EB-5 Green Card Valid?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The initial EB-5 green card is conditional and valid for two years. Before the end of this period, the investor must file a petition to remove the conditions by proving the investment was sustained and the required jobs were created. If successful, they receive a 10-year renewable green card, which also provides a pathway to U.S. citizenship after five years of permanent residency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Apply for an EB-5 Green Card Now?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several reasons to consider applying for an EB-5 green card sooner rather than later. One of the most pressing is the potential for rising costs. While the current investment minimums stand at $800,000 for TEA projects and $1,050,000 for non-TEA investments, these amounts are subject to increase based on inflation or shifts in government policy. A higher investment threshold could make the program less accessible to many potential applicants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition to cost, policy uncertainty is another key factor. Although the EB-5 Regional Center Program has been extended through September 30, 2027, future legislative changes could reshape or even replace the current program. For example, proposals like the potential \u201cTrump Gold Card\u201d could introduce new criteria or limitations, which might impact eligibility or investment flexibility for future applicants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lastly, beginning the process early allows for more time to navigate the legal and procedural steps involved. From preparing the investment to compiling necessary documentation and submitting petitions, the EB-5 process is complex and time-sensitive. Starting now ensures applicants can proceed through each stage with adequate time and preparation, reducing the risk of delays or missed deadlines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How the EB-5 Compares to Other U.S. Visas<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The EB-5 is the only U.S. visa that offers a direct path to permanent residency based solely on investment. Unlike other employment-based visas, it does not require a job offer, employer sponsorship, or specific educational qualifications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why You Should Work with an Immigration Attorney Early<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The EB-5 application process is highly detailed and governed by strict immigration laws. Minor mistakes in documentation or eligibility can lead to significant delays or even a denial of the petition. Working with an immigration attorney early in the process can help ensure that your investment complies with all EB-5 eligibility standards, that every filing is accurate and submitted on time, and that you remain informed and prepared as immigration policies and program deadlines evolve. Taking a proactive approach with professional legal support can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Pilkington Immigration Can Help<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re considering applying for an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/us-immigration\/employment-based-green-card\/eb5-green-card\/\">EB-5 green card<\/a>, Pilkington Immigration can guide you every step of the way. From choosing the right investment path to assembling your petition and navigating complex legal requirements, our experienced team is here to help. Contact us today for personalized support tailored to your immigration goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Schedule a consultation with our team today by visiting our Contact Us page <a href=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/contact-us\/\">HERE<\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The EB-5 green card is a United States immigrant visa that offers permanent residency to foreign nationals who make a qualifying investment in a U.S. business. Created to stimulate the American economy through job creation and capital investment, the EB-5 program allows investors and their immediate family members to live, work, and study anywhere in [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":17,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"<!-- wp:image {\"lightbox\":{\"enabled\":false},\"id\":2706,\"sizeSlug\":\"full\",\"linkDestination\":\"custom\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img src=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/15\/2025\/02\/feb2.jpg\" alt=\"Three Canadian Flags flying outside a tall office building.\" class=\"wp-image-2706\"\/><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Registration Requirement for Foreign Nationals \u2013 Effective April 11, 2025<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Starting April 11, 2025, all foreign nationals who meet certain criteria must register with the U.S. government. This would apply to many of the snowbird travelers to the U.S. who typically spend time in southern United States in the winter months. Failure to comply may result in fines and\/or imprisonment. If registration is required, individuals must carry proof of registration at all times and present it to law enforcement if requested. Below provides general information to help determine if registration is necessary and how to register. General information can be found on the USCIS website:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/alienregistration\">https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/alienregistration<\/a>. For specific questions, we recommend consulting an attorney, we are happy to help!<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>You may wish to book a consultation with our Pilkington Immigration expert by clicking below.<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/meetings.hubspot.com\/margaret-wilson\/paid-zoom-meeting-margaret-wilson\"><strong>Book a Consultation<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Am I Required to Register?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Q: Will you be in the U.S. for 30 days or more?<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Yes:<\/strong>\u00a0You must register. Continue to the next question.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>No:<\/strong>\u00a0You do not need to register. Consult an attorney if you have further questions.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Q: Are you 14 years of age or older?<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Yes:<\/strong>\u00a0You must register.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>No:<\/strong>\u00a0Your parent or legal guardian is responsible for registering you.<br>You must re-register within 30 days of turning 14.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Do I Register?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><strong>Q: Do you have any of the following valid documents after entering the U.S.?<\/strong><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"start\":1} -->\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-94 (<a href=\"https:\/\/i94.cbp.dhs.gov\/home\">https:\/\/i94.cbp.dhs.gov\/home<\/a>)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Border Crossing Card<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Notice to Appear in Immigration Court (NTA)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-551 Stamp or Green Card (LPR card)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-765 EAD<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Admission or parole stamp in your passport<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Yes:<\/strong>\u00a0You are already registered.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>No:<\/strong>\u00a0You must complete Form G-325R via your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/my.uscis.gov\/\">https:\/\/my.uscis.gov\/<\/a>\u00a0account.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Biometrics Appointment<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you register by submitting Form G-325R, you will be scheduled for a Biometrics Appointment. You are not considered fully registered until you complete this appointment. Watch for your Biometrics Appointment Notice, which should be sent to your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/my.uscis.gov\/\">https:\/\/my.uscis.gov\/<\/a>&nbsp;account.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Canadian citizens entering as visitors under the visa exemption rule do not need to attend a biometrics appointment. Registration will be considered complete once Form G-325R is submitted.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Individuals who entered the U.S. under the Jay Treaty are exempt from the registration requirement.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What Is Considered Proof of Registration?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Proof of registration may include, but is not limited to, the following:<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list {\"ordered\":true,\"start\":1} -->\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-94<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Border Crossing Card<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Notice to Appear in Immigration Court<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-551 Stamp or Green Card<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>I-765 EAD<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Admission or parole stamp<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Certificate of Registration or Alien Registration Receipt Card (available through your myUSCIS account after completing Form G-325R)<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ol>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>If you are over 18, you must carry proof of registration at all times. You should consult an attorney to ensure that you are properly registered and have the correct proof of registration.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Penalties for Non-Compliance<\/strong><\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Failure to carry proof of registration:<\/strong>\u00a0A misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $5,000, up to 30 days in prison, or both.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Failure to register:<\/strong>\u00a0A fine of up to $5,000, up to 6 months in prison, or both.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Fraudulent statements on a registration:<\/strong>\u00a0Criminal prosecution and possible deportation upon conviction.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><strong>Parents:<\/strong>\u00a0Responsible for registering children under 14 and may face penalties for non-compliance.<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The registration requirement and proof of registration may vary depending on individual circumstances. It is important for snowbirds and visitors alike to properly understand the requirements of this new policy. If your questions are not addressed in this guide, consult an immigration attorney. While we assist clients with the registration process, please note that USCIS does not allow attorneys to access Form G-325R.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Are you a snowbird looking for assistance with this new registration process?&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pilkington Immigration<\/a>&nbsp;can ease the stress of registration. Schedule a consult today to discuss our fees and services!<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/meetings.hubspot.com\/margaret-wilson\/paid-zoom-meeting-margaret-wilson\"><strong>Book a Consultation<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[13],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2817","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-news-events"],"aioseo_notices":[],"featured_image_src":null,"featured_image_src_square":null,"author_info":{"display_name":"Staff","author_link":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/author\/brian\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2817","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/17"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2817"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2817\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2821,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2817\/revisions\/2821"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2817"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2817"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pilkingtonimmigration.com\/fredericton-nb\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2817"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}