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The EB-5 program has long been a preferred pathway for foreign investors seeking U.S. residency. However, the latest data from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) shows a remarkable surge in demand, with I-526/E petition filings increasing by 85 percent in FY 2024 compared to the previous year. This sharp rise is one of the most significant year-over-year increases in the program’s history, reflecting a growing interest in investment-based immigration.

What Do the Numbers Say?

According to USCIS statistics:

• 2,616 EB-5 petitions were filed in FY 2023
• 4,848 EB-5 petitions were filed in FY 2024

This substantial increase indicates a renewed confidence in the EB-5 program and highlights the growing recognition of its long-term benefits. But what exactly drove this surge in applications?

Why Did EB-5 Filings Surge in 2024?

Several key factors contributed to the sharp rise in EB-5 filings last year:

1. Flexible Payment Plans Lowering Barriers to Entry

With the increase in the required investment amount under the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act (RIA), many EB-5 sponsors began offering payment plan options, allowing investors to make their $800,000 investment in installments. This change significantly lowered the financial barrier for many potential applicants, making EB-5 more accessible to a broader range of investors who may not have had immediate liquidity.

2. Enhanced Investor Protections through Increased Oversight

The RIA introduced significant measures to enhance the program’s integrity and investor confidence. The RIA mandates rigorous oversight of regional centers, requiring them to notify the Department of Homeland Security of any structural changes, maintain comprehensive records for audits, and obtain approval for each investment offering. Additionally, the establishment of the EB-5 Integrity Fund enables the detection and investigation of fraud, ensuring compliance with U.S. immigration laws. These reforms aim to create a more transparent and secure environment for investors, thereby increasing the program’s appeal

3. Growing Demand for U.S. Residency

With increasing global economic uncertainty, more investors are prioritizing U.S. residency as a means of securing long-term financial stability, political security, and expanded opportunities for their families. The United States remains one of the most attractive destinations for investors due to its:

• Strong economy and business environment
• Political stability and legal protections
• World-class healthcare and education systems
• Favorable conditions for entrepreneurship and wealth preservation

4. Tightening Restrictions on Other Visa Categories

The surge in EB-5 filings can also be attributed to the increasing challenges associated with employment-based visa categories such as the H-1B and L-1. These visa programs have become more competitive and restrictive, with limited annual quotas and longer wait times. In contrast, EB-5 offers a direct path to permanent residency without requiring employer sponsorship or labor market testing.

5. A Pathway to U.S. Citizenship

For many high-net-worth individuals, securing a U.S. Green Card is only the first step. The EB-5 program provides a clear route to U.S. citizenship, allowing investors to apply for naturalization and passports after five years of permanent residency. 

Key Benefits of the EB-5 Program

The EB-5 program continues to be one of the most attractive investment-based immigration options, offering:

• Green Card for the Whole Family – Investors, their spouses, and unmarried children under 21 receive U.S. permanent residency.
• No Sponsorship Requirement – Unlike H-1B and L-1 visas, EB-5 does not require an employer or family sponsorship.
• Freedom to Live, Work, and Study Anywhere – Green Card holders are not restricted to a specific job, state, or employer.
• Access to Top U.S. Education Institutions – Investors’ children can attend U.S. schools, benefit from lower in-state tuition at public universities, and qualify for federal student aid.
• Pathway to U.S. Citizenship – After five years as a Green Card holder, investors can apply for naturalization and obtain a U.S. passport.
• Potential Return on Investment – With careful project selection, EB-5 investors can secure residency while also recovering their capital over time.

What This Means for Investors in 2025

With EB-5 demand at an all-time high, securing a spot sooner rather than later is essential. The sharp increase in filings could have the following implications for new applicants:

• Longer Processing Times – As more petitions enter the pipeline, wait times may increase. Filing earlier helps investors stay ahead of potential backlogs.
• Higher Competition for Investment Projects – The best EB-5 projects have limited availability, and demand is rising. Investors who delay may miss out on the most secure and promising opportunities.
• Possible Policy or Regulatory Changes – While the EB-5 program is currently stable, future modifications to investment requirements, program rules, or visa allocations could impact new applicants. Those who apply now secure their place under the current regulations.

For those considering EB-5, 2025 is the time to take action before backlogs increase and project availability diminishes. Our team of U.S. licensed lawyers specializes in guiding investors through every step of the process. Contact us today to discuss available investment opportunities and start your journey toward U.S. residency.