Are you an investor looking to obtain a green card through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program? Understanding the EB-5 visa timeline is critical for planning your immigration journey. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step EB-5 visa process and explain how long each stage typically takes.
What Is the EB-5 Visa?
The EB-5 visa program offers foreign investors a path to U.S. permanent residency (green card) by making a qualifying investment in a U.S. business that creates jobs. It’s especially attractive for high-net-worth individuals who want to live, work, and study in the United States without employer sponsorship.
EB-5 Visa Process & Timeline (Step-by-Step)
Here’s a breakdown of the EB-5 visa process and how long it usually takes at each stage:
1. Find a Qualifying EB-5 Investment Project
Estimated Time: 1–3 months
You must invest $1.05 million, or $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or Rural Area, in a new commercial enterprise. Most investors choose EB-5 Regional Centers to reduce direct management responsibilities.
2. Invest the Funds and File Form I-526E (Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor)
Estimated Time: 12–24 months (varies by country)
Once you’ve made your investment, your attorney will file Form I-526E with USCIS. This petition proves your funds are lawfully sourced and committed to a qualifying project.
Important: EB-5 processing time for Form I-526E varies. As of 2025, typical wait times are around 18 months, but faster for countries not subject to visa backlogs.
3. Wait for Priority Date to Become Current (If from Backlogged Country)
Estimated Time: 0–5+ years
Investors from high-demand countries like China, India, or Vietnam may face a backlog. You must wait for your visa bulletin priority date to become current before moving to the next stage.
EB-5 reserved visas (for rural or infrastructure projects) can reduce wait times significantly.
4. Apply for Conditional Green Card (Form I-485 or DS-260)
- Inside the U.S.: File Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
- Outside the U.S.: File Form DS-260 and go through Consular Processing
Estimated Time: 6–12 months
After your I-526E is approved and your priority date is current, you can apply for your 2-year conditional green card.
5. Receive 2-Year Conditional Green Card
You are now legally allowed to live and work in the U.S
6. File Form I-829 to Remove Conditions on Green Card
Estimated Time: 22–45 months
Within 90 days before your 2-year green card expires, you must file Form I-829, proving that the investment created the required 10 jobs. Once approved, you get your permanent 10-year green card.
📌 Total EB-5 Visa Timeline Summary
| Stage | Timeframe |
| Investment & I-526E Filing | 1–3 months |
| I-526E Processing | 12–24 months |
| Visa Availability (if applicable) | 0–5+ years |
| Green Card Processing | 6–12 months |
| I-829 Processing (Remove Conditions) | 22–45 months |
Total time to green card:
2–5 years (varies based on country of birth and visa category)
Tips to Speed Up the EB-5 Process
- Choose rural/infrastructure projects for faster visa access
- Ensure clean, well-documented source of funds
- Work with an experienced EB-5 immigration attorney
- Track the USCIS processing times and visa bulletin monthly
Need Help Navigating the EB-5 Visa Process?
At Visa Immigration Pro, we help global investors and their families navigate the complex U.S. immigration system. Our experienced attorneys will guide you through every step of the EB-5 visa process, from investment selection to green card approval.
📞 Book a consultation today and take the first step toward your American dream.👉 Schedule a Call | 📩 [email protected] | 🌐 www.visaimmigrationpro.com
