EB-5 Demand Continues to Grow as Key Filing Deadlines Approach
The latest I-526E data for Q1 FY2026, published by IIUSA, confirms that demand for the EB-5 program continues to grow.
A total of 1,765 investors filed I-526E petitions during the first quarter of FY2026, representing a 12% increase compared to the previous quarter and a 24% increase year-on-year. Based on current investment thresholds, these filings are estimated to represent more than US$1.4 billion in EB-5 investment raised in just three months.
The increase comes as more investors look to secure the benefits available under the current EB-5 framework before two important milestones. The first is the September 30, 2026 grandfathering deadline, which protects investors who properly file Form I-526E before that date even if the Regional Center Program is amended, suspended or allowed to lapse in the future. The second is the January 2027 inflation adjustment, when the minimum investment amount is scheduled to increase for the first time under the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act.
Demand is also being driven by continued interest in U.S. permanent residence. Families around the world continue to view the United States as a destination for high-quality education, career opportunities, business growth and long-term stability. At a time when many immigration pathways have become more restrictive or uncertain, EB-5 remains one of the few employment-based routes to permanent residence established by legislation.
“The latest filing data suggests investors are becoming increasingly aware that the current window of opportunity won’t remain open indefinitely,” says Shai Zamanian. “Families still want access to the opportunities that U.S. permanent residence provides, but they’re also recognising that waiting could mean higher investment thresholds, longer queues and fewer advantages than are available today. More investors are choosing to start the process now rather than later.”
India Continues to Lead Investor Demand
India continues to be one of the strongest sources of EB-5 demand, accounting for a significant share of I-526E filings.
This aligns with recent Visa Bulletin developments, which have shown increasing demand from Indian investors and continued pressure on the unreserved EB-5 category. The latest figures suggest many investors are choosing to file before the upcoming statutory deadlines rather than waiting until the final months.
What This Means for Investors
The Q1 FY2026 data paints a clear picture: demand for EB-5 remains strong, and investors are responding to the program’s upcoming statutory deadlines.
With more petitions entering the system and fewer being adjudicated, processing inventories are expected to continue growing. For investors considering the EB-5 program, starting early provides the best opportunity to prepare source of funds documentation, select the right project and file before the September 30, 2026 grandfathering deadline and the January 2027 inflation adjustment.
