EB-5 Green Card in Surrey, BC
The EB-5 program allows eligible foreign investors to pursue permanent residence in the United States through a qualifying investment. In addition to the principal applicant, a spouse and unmarried children under 21 may also qualify for green cards through the same application.
Most applicants participate in the program by investing $800,000 USD into a project connected to a government-authorized Regional Center. These projects are designed to support economic development and job creation within the United States.
Following the investment and petition filing, applicants and their accompanying family members may receive conditional green cards within approximately 2–3 years (or more). After maintaining conditional resident status for two years, investors must file an additional petition demonstrating that the project met the program’s job creation or economic impact requirements. If approved, the conditions on permanent residence are removed.
Exploring the EB-5 Visa Pathway
The EB-5 visa provides a direct route to U.S. permanent residence through investment. Unlike many immigration programs, it does not require a job offer, employer sponsorship, or labor certification.
For individuals considering business immigration, the program offers an opportunity to invest in the U.S. economy while pursuing long-term residency goals. It is also distinct from a traditional employment based green card, as eligibility is based on a qualifying investment rather than an employer-employee relationship.
EB-5 Green Card Process
Step 1: Commit the Investment
The process begins with transferring the required investment capital and Regional Center administrative fees to the designated project account.
Step 2: File Form I-526
The investor must submit Form I-526 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
This filing must establish that:
- At least $800,000 USD has been invested in a qualifying project
- The funds originated from lawful sources
- The investment satisfies EB-5 program requirements
Step 3: Apply for a Green Card
Once USCIS approves the I-526 petition, the investor can move forward with the green card application process.
Step 4: Obtain Conditional Permanent Residence
After approval, the investor and eligible family members receive conditional green cards. This status allows them to live and work in the United States without needing separate work authorization.
Step 5: Remove Conditions on Residence
Approximately two years after receiving conditional residence, Form I-829 must be filed.
This petition must demonstrate that:
- The investment created at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers, or
- The project generated qualifying economic benefits in the surrounding area
If USCIS determines the requirements have been met, permanent residence continues without conditions. If not, the green cards may be withdrawn.
Following approval of the I-829 petition, the $800,000 investment is generally returned according to the terms of the project.
EB-5 Visa Processing Time
Understanding the EB-5 visa processing time is an important part of planning an investment-based immigration strategy.
While processing times vary based on individual circumstances, the process typically includes:
- Filing and review of Form I-526
- Green card application processing
- Two years of conditional permanent residence
- Filing and adjudication of Form I-829
For many applicants, the complete EB-5 green card process takes approximately 2–5 years from initial filing to the removal of conditions.
Advantages of the EB-5 Program
The EB-5 program offers several benefits for investors and their families:
- Permanent resident status for the investor, spouse, and qualifying children
- No employer sponsorship requirement
- Access to U.S. educational institutions
- A pathway toward U.S. citizenship after five years of permanent residence
- Opportunities for passive investment through Regional Center projects
Investment Options Available
Investors generally choose between two qualifying investment structures.
Direct Investment
This option involves launching, purchasing, or operating a business that creates at least 10 full-time jobs. The investor must actively participate in management.
Regional Center Investment
This approach allows investors to participate in larger projects managed by approved Regional Centers without being responsible for day-to-day operations.
Current minimum investment amounts include:
- $800,000 USD for projects in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA)
- $1,050,000 USD for projects outside a TEA
Many investors prefer Regional Center investments because they offer a more passive role.
Understanding Targeted Employment Areas
Targeted Employment Areas are locations designated for reduced investment thresholds. A TEA may be:
- A rural area outside major metropolitan regions, or
- An area with unemployment levels at least 150% of the national average
Regardless of location, the investment must still create 10 full-time jobs within two years.
Timeline at a Glance
Most EB-5 cases progress through the following stages:
- Investment and project selection
- Filing Form I-526
- USCIS review and approval
- Green card application processing
- Conditional permanent residence
- Filing Form I-829
- Removal of conditions
Although every case is unique, applicants should generally expect a total timeline of 2–5 years.
Comparing EB-5 to Other U.S. Immigration Options
The EB-5 program remains unique because it offers a direct path to permanent residence through investment alone. Unlike many other immigration categories, there is no requirement for a qualifying employer, job offer, or labor market testing process.
EB-5 Updates for 2025 and 2026
The EB-5 program is currently authorized through September 30, 2027. Investors should also be aware that:
- Investment thresholds may increase over time due to inflation adjustments
- Legislative proposals, including the Trump “Gold Card”, could potentially alter or replace aspects of the current program
- Regulatory and processing policies may continue to evolve
Because of these factors, many investors choose to begin the process while current requirements remain in effect.
Why Work with an Immigration Lawyer?
The EB-5 process involves complex financial documentation, source-of-funds analysis, and detailed immigration filings. Small errors can result in delays, requests for additional evidence, or denials.
Working with an immigration lawyer can help you:
- Confirm your investment meets EB-5 requirements
- Properly document the lawful source of investment funds
- Prepare accurate and complete petitions
- Stay informed about policy and legislative changes
At Pilkington Immigration, our immigration lawyers assist investors throughout every stage of the EB-5 journey, helping clients navigate the process with confidence and clarity.
Client Reviews
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