Hong Kong
Taiwan
VietnamShort answer: The EB-5 path is: I-526E approval → conditional green card (~2 years) → I-829 removal of conditions → full permanent residence → typically about 5 years as a permanent resident before filing for naturalization (N-400). The 5 years usually run from becoming a permanent resident (including conditional time), subject to continuous residence and physical-presence rules. Citizenship is not automatic and is not completed by I-829 alone.
Stages from investment to citizen
- I-526E / visa or adjustment — conditional permanent resident.
- About 2 conditional years — work, study, travel (with valid documents).
- I-829 — prove jobs and capital sustainment; remove conditions.
- Full permanent residence — maintain residence intent and tax/reporting duties.
- N-400 naturalization — generally ~5 years as a permanent resident, required physical presence, English and civics tests (with possible exceptions), good moral character, etc. See US EB-5 Investor Immigration.
How the 5 years work—and common pitfalls
| Item | Note |
|---|---|
| Start date | Usually from becoming a permanent resident (including conditional) |
| Physical presence | Continuous residence and day-count rules apply |
| Long trips abroad | Can break continuous residence and affect eligibility |
| I-829 denial | May lose permanent residence; citizenship is then off the table |
Must you naturalize?
No. Many people live indefinitely on a full green card. Citizenship adds voting rights, different travel flexibility, and the ability to petition certain relatives. Decide based on tax, dual-citizenship rules of your other nationality, and family plans.
Global Immigrate’s recommendation
Manage “green card” and “citizenship” as separate goals. Use the conditional years for I-829 evidence; after conditions are removed, plan presence days and an N-400 calendar. Frequent long stays abroad warrant advice on continuous residence before travel. Derivative children’s naturalization clocks may differ from the principal’s.
Data current as of October 2026. General information only; not legal advice.