For many EB-5 investors with diverse assets, fixed deposits (FDs) or certificates of deposit (CDs) are where years of savings may actually be sitting. Although the names differ, the two are essentially the same savings product: banks in India typically call it a “fixed deposit,” while banks in the United States call it a “certificate...
Regional Center Formations
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has finalized a new fee schedule for the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program which will take effect on November 30, 2026. USCIS states that the adjustment in fees are intended to ensure EB-5 fees fully recover the cost of operating the program, allow the agency to meet statutory processing time...
A common question asked by EB-5 investors is: “If I get married during the EB-5 process, can my spouse receive a green card with me?” The answer depends largely on when the marriage occurs. In many cases, the timing of the marriage can determine whether a spouse receives a green card as a derivative beneficiary...
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program continues to be a key pathway for foreign investors seeking U.S. permanent residency. Staying aware of upcoming deadlines is essential, with several critical dates in 2026 and 2027 that investors should watch closely. September 30, 2026: Grandfathering Deadline EB-5 petitions filed before September 30, 2026, are statutorily protected under the...
The availability of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) can feel like a valuable shortcut while waiting for a green card. However, like any immigration benefit, it should be thought through carefully before deciding whether using it is the right strategic choice for you. What Is an EAD in the Context of EB-5 Concurrent Filing? Concurrent...
Effective March 30, 2026, USCIS will implement a new “Inventory Management” approach for processing EB-5 investor petitions. This update stems from the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (RIA) and significantly changes how Form I-526 (Standalone Investor) and Form I-526E (Regional Center Investor) petitions are reviewed. What Changed? The RIA introduced several priorities for...
The 2026 AILA EB-5 Virtual Conference focused on the future of the program as the September 30 deadline approaches. With hopes high for the renewal of the Regional Center Program, experts highlighted key issues and opportunities for EB-5 stakeholders, providing insights into trends and strategies to successfully navigate the path forward. Factors Affecting EB-5 Timelines...
The EB-5 & Global Immigration Expo, held in Newport Beach, California, in January 2026, brought together attorneys, regional centers, project developers, and industry professionals to discuss the evolving EB-5 landscape, adjudication trends, and immigration policy developments. Across panels and conversations, one message was consistent: thoughtful planning, rigorous due diligence, and strategic decision-making matter more than...