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How Much Money Do You Need for an EB-5 Visa?

How Much Money Do You Need for an EB-5 Visa?

The EB-5 visa program is a popular pathway for foreign investors seeking permanent residency in the United States. One of the most critical questions prospective investors ask is: How much money is required for an EB-5 visa? The answer depends on the type of investment and where the funds are directed. In this blog, we’ll break down the financial requirements, associated costs, and key considerations to help you determine if the EB-5 visa is the right fit for you.

What Is the Minimum Investment for an EB-5 Visa?

As of 2025, the minimum investment required for the EB-5 visa program is:

  • $1,050,000 for standard investments.
  • $800,000 for investments in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), which includes high-unemployment or rural areas.

Understanding Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs)

TEAs are designated areas that encourage economic growth in underserved regions. If your investment project is located in a TEA, you can qualify for the lower investment threshold of $800,000. This reduced amount is intended to incentivize investments in areas that need economic development the most.

What Does the Investment Cover?

The required investment must be directed toward a new commercial enterprise that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. Acceptable investment types include cash, inventory, equipment, and other tangible property. Funds must remain “at risk” for the duration of the investment to qualify under EB-5 regulations, meaning there’s no guaranteed return.

Additional Costs to Consider

In addition to the investment amount, applicants should account for additional costs that may include:

  • Administrative Fees: Most regional centers charge administrative fees ranging from $50,000 to $70,000.
  • Legal Fees: Immigration attorney fees can vary but typically range from $15,000 to $30,000.
  • USCIS Filing Fees: Form I-526E (Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor) filing fee is $3,675 as of 2025.
  • Due Diligence Costs: Engaging professionals to assess the viability of the investment project may cost between $10,000 and $20,000.
  • Other Professional Services: Business plans, economic analyses, and financial projections to support the EB-5 application can add several thousand dollars to your expenses.

Do You Need $1 Million in Cash?

Not necessarily. USCIS allows investments to come from various sources, such as:

  • Personal savings
  • Gifts from family or friends
  • Loans secured by personal assets
  • Business profits

It’s important to provide thorough documentation showing that the investment funds were lawfully obtained. This is a critical component of the EB-5 application process.

Why the EB-5 Visa Is a Worthwhile Investment

Despite the substantial financial commitment, the EB-5 visa offers numerous benefits:

  • A clear pathway to a green card for you, your spouse, and your unmarried children under 21.
  • No sponsorship requirement from a U.S. employer or family member.
  • The freedom to live, work, and study anywhere in the U.S.

Choosing the Right Investment

Before committing funds, it’s essential to work with experienced professionals, including immigration attorneys and financial advisors, to identify projects that meet EB-5 requirements and align with your goals. A solid and credible business plan can make the difference between approval and denial.

Contact Us for Comprehensive EB-5 Support

Navigating the EB-5 visa requirements requires precision and expertise. Our firm specializes in crafting detailed, credible business plans tailored to EB-5 direct investments. If you’re ready to take the next step, contact us today to ensure your business plan sets you up for success.

By understanding the financial commitments and working with trusted advisors, you can move forward with confidence on your path to permanent residency in the United States.

Contact us today to get started


The information provided in this blog is intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, it should not be considered legal advice. Immigration laws and regulations are subject to change, and individual circumstances can vary widely. For personalized guidance and legal advice regarding your specific immigration situation, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration attorney who can provide you with tailored assistance and ensure compliance with current laws and regulations.


Visa Business Plans is led by Marco Scanu, a certified coach from the University of Miami with a globally-based practice coaching Fortune 1000 company executives, entrepreneurs, as well as professionals in four different continents. Mr. Scanu advises clients on turnaround strategies and crisis management.

Mr. Scanu received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Cum Laude) from the University of Florida and an MBA in Management from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. Mr. Scanu was also a Visiting Scholar at Michigan State University under the prestigious H. Humphrey Fellowship (Fulbright program) with a focus on Entrepreneurship, Venture Capital, and high-growth enterprises.

At present, Mr. Scanu is the managing partner and CEO at Visa Business Plans, a Miami-based boutique consulting firm providing attorneys and investors with business planning services in the areas of U.S. and Canadian immigration, SBA loans, and others.


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