EB5 Green Card
EB5 Green Card Applications in Tulsa, OK
Foreign nationals who invest under the EB5 green card category can obtain permanent resident status in the United States by through a qualified investment. Also, the applicant’s spouse and children under the age of 21 will be eligible for green cards as well.
The applicant can obtain a green card under the EB-5 category by investing USD$800,000 into a project (i.e. a business or real estate development project) that is managed or affiliated with a government authorized Regional Center.
The applicant and his accompanying family will obtain conditional green cards within approximately 2-3 years (or more) after making the investment and filing the green card petition. Two years after the conditional green cards have been issued, the applicant will need to file a petition evidencing that (a) 10 full-time jobs for U.S. citizens or permanent residents have been created as a direct or indirect result of his/her USD$800,000 investment or (b) the area in which the Regional Center/project is located has benefited economically as a direct or indirect result of the investment. If this standard has been met, the condition on the green cards will be removed. If the standard has not been met, the green cards will be withdrawn.
Process
Step 1: Investment
The applicant will first need to wire the investment funds and Regional Center administrative fees into the Regional Center’s account.
Step 2: File I-526 Petition
The I-526 petition is a petition that EB-5 green card applicants must file with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (‘USCIS’). The purpose is to provide evidence that the EB-5 green card applicant has in fact dedicated at least $800,000 USD to a qualifying Regional Center, that the funds invested have been accrued from lawful sources, and have entered into an arrangement with a Regional Center that qualifies the applicant for a green card pursuant to the EB-5 classification.
Step 3: Approval of I-526 Petition and Filing Green Card
Once the I-526 petition has been approved, the investor will need to file the Green Card Application.
Step 4: Green Card Approval
Once the Green Card Application is approved, the applicant and his qualifying family members will obtain their conditional green cards. As green card holders the applicant and his family will enjoy most of the rights United States citizens enjoy — they will be permitted to reside in the United States indefinitely, obtain employment without having to get a work visa.
Step 5: Removal of Condition on Green Card
Approximately two years after the green cards have been issued, our firm will receive a notice to file an I-829 petition to remove the conditions on the green card. The I-829 will need to evidence that (a) 10 full-time jobs for U.S. citizens or permanent residents have been created as a direct or indirect result of the applicant’s investment or (b) the area in which the Regional Center/project is located has benefited economically as a direct or indirect result of the applicant’s investment. If this standard has been met, the condition on the green cards will be removed. If the standard has not been met, the green cards will be withdrawn. Finally, the project will return your investment of $800,000 in full after the I-829 has been approved.
Benefits of EB-5
The EB-5 program offers advantages for foreign nationals seeking U.S. residency:
- Permanent residency for the you (the investor), spouse, and unmarried children under 21
- No U.S. sponsor or employer needed
- Access to U.S. education and universities
- Path to U.S. citizenship after five years of permanent residency
- Passive Investment opportunity when investing through a Regional Center
Investment Type
There are two main investment pathways:
- Direct Investment: Start or buy a business that creates 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. You must be active in managing the business.
- Regional Center Investment: Invest in a project managed by a government approved Regional Center. You do not need to be actively involved.
The minimum investment is:
- $800,000 USD for projects in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA)
- $1,050,000 USD for projects in non-TEA areas
Most investors choose the Regional Center option because it is simpler and does not require active management.
Understanding Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs)
A Targeted Employment Area (TEA) is either:
- A rural area outside metro areas and cities or towns with a population of 20,000 people or more.
- A high unemployment area, with an unemployment rate at least 150%.
The investment must still result in creating 10 full time jobs for U.S. workers within 2 years, even when investing in a TEA.
Timeline
The EB-5 process goes through several stages. Timelines vary based on country of origin, USCIS processing times, and by case.
A general process involves:
- I-526 Petition Filing (Investment & Job Creation Plan)
- USCIS Review & Waiting for Approval
- Apply for Green Card (Consular or adjustment of status)
- Get a Conditional Green Card
- Filing of the I-829 Petition to remove conditions.
While timelines vary, the overall process is typically 2-5 years.
Comparison with Other U.S. Visas That Offer Direct Pathway to a Green Card
The EB-5 is the only visa that offers a direct path to a Green Card based on investment without needing a job, sponsorship or employer.
EB-5 Policy and Legislative Updates in 2025 and 2026
The EB-5 program is currently active and has been extended through September 30, 2027. However, future changes may affect tis. .
- Investment amounts can go up based on inflation
- Proposals like The Trump “Gold Card,” could change or replace the EB-5 program.
Based on these uncertainties, many investors are choosing to begin the process now.
Why Work with an Immigration Attorney Early
The EB-5 process involves detailed paperwork, legal strategy and adhering with strict U.S. Immigration laws. Small mistakes can result in serious delays or denials.
Working with an immigration attorney ensures:
- Your Investment meets the EB-5 requirements
- You stay ahead of changing immigration policies and deadlines.
- Your petitions are accurately prepared and filed on time.
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
With offices in four countries for businesses and individuals seeking solutions to their immigration needs to the United States or Canada, the team at Pilkington Immigration in Tulsa, OK has the expertise and ability to find global solutions to local needs.
Call us today at 1-844-728-1012 or Request an Appointment.