Can I travel outside the U.S. while my EB-5 is being processed?

In general, traveling outside the United States while an EB-5 case is pending is possible, but it requires care and depends on how you are handling the petition. Travel itself does not typically stall the case; what changes are the immigration precautions specific to each situation.

The most sensitive point is the adjustment of status filed from within the United States. Leaving the country without the appropriate travel authorization may be interpreted as abandonment of the petition, with serious consequences for the case. Those who pursue consular processing from abroad tend to have more freedom of movement.

If you hold a nonimmigrant status and plan to reenter, it is essential to confirm that your visa and any reentry documents are valid and in order before you depart. Each stage of the process may have its own requirements.

Because the rules vary depending on your status and the phase of your case, check for updated guidance from the official source (USCIS) and, if in doubt, coordinate any travel with a specialist before leaving the country.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.