What are the EB-5 categories?

The EB-5 program is generally organized into two main investment pathways, which differ by the level of involvement required from the investor and by the way job creation is demonstrated.

The first is investment through a Regional Center, a government-designated entity that pools capital from multiple investors to fund larger projects. This is a more hands-off approach: the investor does not need to manage daily operations, and the job count typically includes both direct and indirect positions.

The second is direct investment, in which the investor puts capital into a business they help create and run. It requires greater involvement, but offers more control over the project and the jobs it generates.

• Regional Center: indirect management, larger projects, direct and indirect jobs.
• Direct investment: more control and participation, with a focus on direct jobs.

In both pathways, the investment must meet the program’s requirements, especially regarding job creation. Because the rules can change, it is worth checking the latest requirements with USCIS and consulting a specialist to determine which pathway fits your profile.

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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.