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Client stories · US EB-5 Investor Immigration

Example case: Moving from a conditional to a permanent green card after two years

Summary

Illustrative scenario: Mr and Mrs Cheung (pseudonyms), Hong Kong, now living in California (pseudonym) and the EB-5. They had held conditional green cards for two years and were preparing their I-829.

This is an illustrative scenario: the people and details are for explanation only and are not a real client case. Every family’s outcome depends on its background and the policies in force at the time.

Background

Mr and Mrs Cheung (pseudonyms), Hong Kong, now living in California. They had held conditional green cards for two years and were preparing their I-829.

Main concern

They worried the project’s progress and job numbers might fall short.

Our approach

We requested the project update and the economist’s job report from the regional centre early, confirmed the investment had been sustained, and filed within the 90 days before the green cards expired.

Process and outcome

The I-829 receipt extended their green cards; the petition was then approved and the family received permanent green cards.

Adviser’s comment

Check a project’s job buffer when you choose it, so you are not on the back foot at I-829.

EB-5 application process

  1. Assessment and project selection (4–8 weeks): We choose the TEA category and a vetted project based on your place of birth, your children’s ages and your family’s goals.
  2. Source of funds and investment (3–6 months): Prepare the source-of-funds evidence, make the investment and sign the investment documents.
  3. File I-526E (12–24 months): File the investor petition; eligible applicants in the US can file I-485 at the same time. Once approved, the family receives two-year conditional green cards.
  4. I-829 removal of conditions (After two years of conditional residence): Show the investment was sustained and the jobs created, and receive ten-year permanent green cards.

Is this right for you?

Every family’s background and timeline is different. To find out whether a similar plan could work for you, book a free consultation with Global Immigrate.

Learn more: US EB-5 Investor Immigration

FAQ

What does 30 September 2026 mean for applicants?

Under the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, regional centre petitions filed on or before 30 September 2026 are protected by a grandfather clause: USCIS must continue processing them even if the regional centre programme later lapses. Petitions filed after that date do not have this protection, so it is worth watching whether Congress reauthorises the programme.

Will the investment amount rise in 2027?

Yes. The law adjusts the investment thresholds for inflation from 1 January 2027 and every five years after that. The new amounts will be announced by USCIS; petitions filed before then use the current amounts.

Will the regional centre programme expire?

The regional centre programme is currently authorised until 30 September 2027, after which Congress must pass legislation to extend it. It has been extended many times before, but the timing and terms are not guaranteed.

Sources

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