Is there a minimum fund transfer required when filing the I-526?

When filing the I-526 petition, there is no requirement to immediately transfer funds or move a minimum amount into the project account. The focus at this stage is to prove the lawful source of the funds and demonstrate that the capital is available to be invested through the EB-5 program.

In practice, the investor provides detailed documentation of where the funds come from and confirms that the amount to be invested is ready for the approved project, whether through a direct investment or a regional center. The transfer to a designated account, often held in escrow, typically takes place in later stages, after the petition is approved.

This structure helps satisfy the capital ‘at risk’ requirement of the EB-5 and maintains transparency throughout the process. The program requires a qualifying investment, the amount of which is set by official regulations and should not be assumed.

Since requirements can change, the best approach is to confirm the current requirements with the official source (USCIS) and structure the investment with the guidance of a qualified specialist, avoiding any miraculous promises.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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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.