The EB-5 investment amount in 2023 refers to the minimum capital investment required for foreign nationals to qualify for a U.S. green card under the EB-5 immigrant investor program. After years of no changes, the EB-5 investment amount was recently increased as part of the reauthorization of the regional center program. Understanding the latest EB-5 investment amount and key elements around EB-5 investments will be critical for those interested in pursuing EB-5 green cards in 2023.
New EB-5 Investment Amount Set at $800,000
The new EB-5 law signed on March 15, 2022 increased the minimum EB-5 investment amount from $500,000 to $800,000 per investor. This new higher investment threshold applies to all EB-5 applicants filing on or after May 15, 2022. The prior $500,000 minimum amount will still apply for those investors who filed before May 15, 2022. This increase in EB-5 capital requirements after decades brings the investment more in line with current economic realities.
2-Year EB-5 Investment Period Officially Implemented
In a highly favorable clarification for EB-5 investors, USCIS confirmed in October 2022 that the new law requires just a 2-year sustaining EB-5 investment period (down from 5+ years previously). This was a monumental policy change resolving years of uncertainty for EB-5 investors unable to exit projects and retrieve capital after long visa backlogs.
Favorable Trends for EB-5 Investor Visa Program
Beyond the increased EB-5 investment amount, the latest EB-5 program extension until 2027 and trends like faster processing, reduced investment at-risk period, and uncoupling of repayments from immigration timelines are hugely positive developments. For qualifying foreign investors, the environment for pursuing EB-5 green cards in 2023 looks highly promising.
More Emphasis on Compliance and Reporting
While positive for investors in many regards, increased oversight and compliance mandates on EB-5 regional centers and migration agents have also come with the latest EB-5 legislation. This includes Form I-956 for verifying EB-5 capital sources. Investors will need trusted guidance to navigate the evolving EB-5 investment landscape.
The EB-5 investment amount in 2023 has increased to $800,000 following recent legislative changes to the program. However, trends like faster processing, a confirmed 2-year sustaining period, and other favorable investor provisions make EB-5 an extremely compelling option for high net worth individuals seeking US green cards.