Short answer: EB-5 projects usually pay investors about 0–1% a year, well below normal market returns. Investors take part mainly to get a green card, and projects offer that opportunity in exchange for low-cost money. So when judging EB-5, capital safety and exit terms matter more than the return.
Why returns are low
| Factor | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Investors want the green card, so projects can borrow cheaply |
| Costs | Projects and regional centers carry marketing, management and compliance costs |
| Risk | The capital must be at risk, but projects rarely pay a matching return |
| Competition | Projects compete on safety and track record rather than yield |
What matters more than return
- Getting the capital back: collateral, priority and the developer’s strength — see the capital stack.
- Timing: repayment dates and redeployment.
- Immigration success: robust documents and job-creation forecasts.
- Fees: the admin fee and refund terms.
Be careful with unusually high returns
If a project pays well above the market norm, ask why — it may mean higher risk or an urgent funding need. A high return doesn’t make a good project.
Our advice
Think of EB-5 as accepting a low return in exchange for a green card, with capital safety first. Read more: how to vet an EB-5 project.
General information only, not investment advice.