John Burson  edited Tuesday, August 13, 2024

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Lasting Impact of USCIS Form I-526E Changes on EB-5 Visa Investors

USCIS Form I-526E is central to the EB-5 visa program, enabling foreign investors to pursue U.S. residency through investments in Regional Centers. While changes to the process occurred back in March 2023, they remain crucial for understanding today’s EB-5 landscape.

Form I-526E: March 2023 Changes

In March 2023, USCIS removed the biometrics requirement and the related $85 fee for Form I-526E. This change aimed to streamline the application process and reduce the burden on petitioners. Though this adjustment is no longer recent, it continues to influence the process by cutting down processing times and simplifying administrative tasks for both investors and USCIS.

Impact Over Time

The removal of the biometrics requirement, while introduced over a year ago, still benefits investors by speeding up processing times. The $1,000 Integrity Fund Fee, introduced at the same time, ensures that USCIS maintains robust oversight of the program. These changes collectively reduce administrative delays and maintain program integrity, which remains relevant to current and prospective investors.

Stakeholder Reflections

Despite the time since its introduction, stakeholders continue to appreciate the reduced processing times. However, given the addition of the Integrity Fund Fee, concerns about the overall cost of filing persist. These perspectives highlight the balance between efficiency and cost in the evolving EB-5 process.

Comparing Past and Present

Before March 2023, the biometrics requirement added time and complexity to the EB-5 application process. The changes have streamlined the application experience, reflecting USCIS’s commitment to efficiency—a trend that continues to benefit current applicants.

Looking Ahead

While the 2023 changes have largely settled in, they offer insight into potential future reforms. USCIS is likely to continue focusing on streamlining processes while maintaining program integrity, ensuring that the EB-5 program remains accessible and efficient.

Though the removal of the biometrics requirement and the introduction of the Integrity Fund Fee were implemented in early 2023, these changes have had a lasting impact on the EB-5 visa process. As the program continues to evolve, these adjustments provide a foundation for future improvements that benefit both investors and the U.S. immigration system.

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Resources:

• For more information on Form I-526E and other EB-5 updates, visit the USCIS website and stay informed about ongoing changes.