EB-5 Green Card in Markham, ON
EB5 Green Card Applications in Markham, ON
The EB-5 program provides a direct path to U.S. permanent residence for individuals who make a qualifying investment in the American economy. Successful applicants may secure green cards for themselves, their spouse, and unmarried children under the age of 21.
To qualify under this program, most applicants invest $800,000 USD into a project associated with a government-approved Regional Center. These projects are typically tied to commercial developments designed to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
After completing the investment and filing the required petition, applicants and their families may receive conditional green cards in approximately 2–3 years (or more). Two years after obtaining conditional status, a second filing is required to confirm that the investment has met job creation or economic impact requirements. If approved, permanent resident status is granted.
The EB-5 Visa Explained
The EB-5 visa is structured to provide permanent residence through investment rather than employment sponsorship.
For individuals exploring employment based green card options, the EB-5 offers an alternative route that does not rely on a U.S. employer. It is also frequently considered as part of broader business immigration planning for those looking to expand into the U.S. market.
EB-5 Green Card Process
Step 1: Investment
Applicants begin by transferring the required capital investment along with Regional Center administrative fees into the designated account.
Step 2: File I-526 Petition
Form I-526 is submitted to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to confirm:
- A minimum investment of $800,000 USD has been made
- The source of funds is lawful
- The investment meets EB-5 program requirements
Step 3: Petition Approval and Green Card Filing
Once the I-526 petition is approved, the applicant proceeds with submitting their green card application.
Step 4: Conditional Green Card
Upon approval, the applicant and eligible family members receive conditional green cards, allowing them to live and work in the United States without a separate visa.
Step 5: Removal of Conditions
Approximately two years after receiving conditional status, Form I-829 must be filed. This petition must demonstrate that:
- 10 full-time jobs were created for U.S. workers, or
- The investment produced economic benefits in the project area
If approved, permanent green cards are issued. If not, the green cards may be withdrawn.
The $800,000 investment is returned after the I-829 petition has been approved.
EB-5 Visa Processing Time
The EB-5 visa processing time depends on several factors, including USCIS processing volumes and the applicant’s country of origin.
A typical timeline includes:
- Filing and review of the I-526 petition
- Processing of the green card application
- A two-year conditional residence period
- Filing and adjudication of the I-829 petition
In most cases, the full EB-5 green card process takes approximately 2–5 years.
Key Benefits of the EB-5 Program
The EB-5 program offers a number of advantages:
- Permanent residency for the investor and immediate family
- No need for a U.S. employer or sponsor
- Access to U.S. schools and universities
- Eligibility for U.S. citizenship after five years
- Passive investment opportunities through Regional Centers
Investment Pathways
There are two main ways to qualify:
Direct Investment
This option involves starting or purchasing a business that creates at least 10 full-time jobs. Active involvement in management is required.
Regional Center Investment
This option allows investors to contribute to a managed project without day-to-day involvement. Minimum investment requirements:
- $800,000 USD (Targeted Employment Area)
- $1,050,000 USD (non-TEA)
Many applicants choose the Regional Center option due to its passive structure.
Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs)
A Targeted Employment Area may be:
- A rural location outside major urban centres
- An area where unemployment is at least 150% of the national average
Even in these areas, the investment must result in the creation of 10 full-time jobs within two years.
Timeline Overview
The EB-5 green card process involves several stages:
- Filing the I-526 petition
- USCIS review and approval
- Applying for a green card
- Receiving conditional permanent residence
- Filing Form I-829
While timelines vary, the overall process typically takes 2–5 years.
How EB-5 Differs From Other U.S. Immigration Options
The EB-5 program is one of the only immigration pathways that allows individuals to obtain a green card directly through investment, without requiring employer sponsorship or a job offer.
EB-5 Policy and Legislative Updates (2025–2026)
The EB-5 program remains active and is currently extended through September 30, 2027. However, future developments may impact applicants:
- Investment thresholds may increase due to inflation
- Proposals such as the Trump “Gold Card” could modify or replace the EB-5 program
- Processing policies may continue to evolve
Given these uncertainties, many investors choose to begin the process under current rules.
Why Work With an Immigration Lawyer Early
The EB-5 process involves detailed documentation, financial verification, and strict compliance with U.S. immigration laws. Even minor errors can lead to delays or refusals.
Working with immigration lawyers helps ensure:
- Your investment meets EB-5 program requirements
- Your application reflects current legal standards
- Your filings are completed accurately and on time
At Pilkington Immigration – Markham, our immigration lawyers provide guidance at every stage of the EB-5 process, helping you move forward with confidence.
Client Reviews
The firm was extremely helpful in all aspects. Definitely appreciated having experts guiding me and handling the application with all of the important details to get a successful result. Thanks again!
Contact Us Today for Help With Your Case
We have offices worldwide for businesses and individuals seeking solutions to their immigration needs to Canada, United States, Germany, Mauritius, and Nigeria. If you are in need of an immigration consultant for family sponsorship in Canada, turn to the trusted lawyers at Pilkington Immigration – Markham. We have years of experience in Canadian immigration issues and are committed to helping our clients feel less confused by the process.
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