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The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a pathway to U.S. permanent residency (Green Card) for foreign nationals who make a qualifying investment in the American economy. One of the most frequently asked questions by prospective investors is: What is the minimum investment amount required for the EB-5 program?

Understanding the EB-5 Investment Threshold

As of 2022, following the passage of the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act (RIA), the minimum investment amount is $800,000 or $1,050,000, depending on the location of the project:

• $800,000 for investments made in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), which includes:
  • • Rural areas, or
    • Areas with high unemployment 
• $1,050,000 for investments made outside of a TEA 

The TEA designation is critical because it allows investors to qualify at a lower threshold, making the EB-5 program more accessible. Projects in TEAs are typically promoted through USCIS-designated regional centers, which facilitate job creation and economic growth in underserved areas.

Flexibility Through Payment Plans

Many EB-5 projects today recognize the need for financial flexibility and offer payment plans to eligible investors. These plans often allow an investor to initially contribute $200,000 to the project, with the remaining balance due within 6 to 12 months from the date of the first payment, depending on the project structure.

This option benefits investors by allowing them to file their petition even before completing the full investment and securing their place in the EB-5 queue. With limited visa availability in certain categories, early priority date retention can be a major strategic advantage.

Direct Investment vs. Regional Center Investment

The minimum investment requirement applies to both forms of EB-5:

• Direct EB-5: The investor starts or operates their own business, directly creating at least 10 full-time U.S. jobs. 
• Regional Center EB-5: The investor places funds into a pooled project through a government-approved regional center, which allows for indirect job creation and greater flexibility. 

While the investment amount may remain the same depending on the TEA designation of the chosen location for the investment, most investors opt for regional center projects due to the reduced managerial burden and lower job creation risk.

Will the Minimum EB-5 Investment Increase?

Yes, the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act mandates that the minimum investment amounts be adjusted for inflation every five years. The first adjustment is scheduled for January 1, 2027.

The increase will be calculated based on the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U), which tracks inflation in the U.S. economy. As of April 2025, the U.S. inflation rate is approximately 2.3% annually. If inflation continues at this rate, the minimum investment in 2027 could rise proportionally.

What Should Investors Do?

If you are considering the EB-5 program, it is important to act before the next scheduled price increase in 2027. With the potential for a higher investment requirement, securing an EB-5 Green Card at the current $800,000 level could be a strategic financial decision.

If you’re exploring the EB-5 program and want to better understand your options, we are here to help. Our team of U.S. licensed lawyers at The American Legal Center has years of experience guiding Middle East-based families through the EB-5 process, from selecting a suitable project for your needs to preparing the documentation for USCIS.

Reach out to us today to schedule a complimentary consultation and learn how you can benefit from flexible investment options and expert guidance every step of the way.