What is Form I-526E for EB-5 Investors?

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Understanding Advance Parole and Form I-131 for EB-5 Investors: Your Complete Guide

For EB-5 investors navigating the complex path to U.S. permanent residency, maintaining travel flexibility while awaiting visa approval can be crucial. Advance parole, obtained through Form I-131, provides this essential freedom of movement. Let's explore what this means for you and how it can protect your immigration journey.

What is Advance Parole?

Advance parole is a travel document that allows certain individuals to re-enter the United States after traveling abroad without jeopardizing their pending immigration applications. For EB-5 investors and petitioners, this document is particularly valuable during two critical periods:

1. While awaiting adjustment of status approval

2. After receiving permanent residency (green card)

When Do EB-5 Investors Need Advance Parole?

During Adjustment of Status

If you are an EB-5 investor currently in the United States on a non-immigrant visa and have filed for adjustment of status through concurrent filing, advance parole becomes your travel lifeline. Here's why:

- Without advance parole, leaving the U.S. during your pending adjustment of status could be considered abandonment of your application

- The document allows you to travel internationally while maintaining your adjustment application

- You can return to the U.S. using your advance parole document instead of requiring another visa

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After Receiving Your Green Card 

Even after becoming a permanent resident, there may be situations where advance parole proves beneficial:

- When you need to spend extended periods outside the U.S.

- If you're managing business transitions in your home country

- During family emergencies requiring prolonged stays abroad

- When children need to complete their academic year in your home country

I-131 Processing Times and Validity

According to USCIS, Form I-31 processing times vary by application type and service center. For the most current processing times, applicants should check the USCIS processing times page and select their specific application type and service center. The advance parole document is typically valid for up to one year, but actual validity periods may vary based on individual circumstances.

Important Considerations for EB-5 Investors 

Before applying for advance parole, keep these crucial points in mind: 

1. Consult with an immigration attorney before traveling, especially if your EB-5 petition might be approved while you're abroad

2. Maintain valid documentation of your intent to reside permanently in the U.S.

3. Understand that advance parole doesn't guarantee re-entry; CBP officers still have discretion at ports of entry

4. If you have a pending Form I-485, you must be physically present in the U.S. when filing Form I-131

Concurrent Filing and Advance Parole

Thanks to the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (RIA),eligible investors can now file for adjustment of status concurrently with their I-526E petition. This means you can:

- Submit your advance parole application along with your adjustment of status

- Begin the process earlier than previously possible

- Potentially reduce overall processing times

However, concurrent filing is only available when visa numbers are current for your country of origin. Currently, this applies to most countries except mainland China and India, which may face cutoff dates in the future.

Best Practices for Advance Parole Applications

To ensure the smoothest possible process:

- Apply well in advance of any planned travel

- Include all required initial evidence with your application

- Pay the correct filing fee as listed on the USCIS website

- Maintain copies of all submitted documentation

- Keep track of your advance parole document's validity period

- Consult with immigration counsel before any extended trips abroad

Ready to take the Next Step?

Advance parole through Form I-131 provides EB-5 investors with crucial travel flexibility during the immigration process. Whether you're awaiting adjustment of status approval or managing your responsibilities as a new permanent resident, understanding and properly utilizing advance parole can help protect your immigration journey while maintaining your ability to travel internationally.

Remember that while advance parole offers significant benefits, it's essential to work with qualified immigration counsel to ensure you're maintaining compliance with all immigration requirements. Your specific situation may have unique considerations that should be carefully evaluated before international travel.

Given the complexity of immigration law and investment requirements, it's wise to work with qualified immigration attorneys and investment advisors who can guide you through the process and ensure you meet all program requirements. They can help you understand the nuances of your specific situation and maximize your chances of success.

The EB-5 team at Peachtree Group has more than 40 years of industry experience in EB-5.  Have questions about EB-5, visit our website or contact us for more information .

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If you are looking to potentially obtain a U.S. green card, you may have more options than you think. While the traditional routes, such as H-1B and F1 visas, are good options, they come with several challenges, including the potential for decades-long wait times. For this reason, you may be interested in exploring employment-based (EB) visas. There are five different types of EB visas, and each comes with its own set of requirements.

So, what makes the several EB visa types—from EB1 to EB5—different? The types of EB visas are a cornerstone of the U.S. immigration system, designed to attract skilled professionals, investors, and specialized workers who contribute to the country’s economy and diversity. Primarily to support employment-based immigration, the EB visa program focuses on both immediate labor needs and long-term national interests. Each year, the U.S. government offers about 140,000, split between the five different types.

Understanding the different types of EB visas is essential for anyone considering employment or investment-based immigration to the U.S. Because each is tailored to unique groups of individuals, finding the pathway that most aligns with your skills, career, and long-term goals can help ensure a smooth visa process.

This is where Peachtree Group comes into play. Our team has spent more than 40 years helping clients potentially obtain green cards through investment. Our experience with the EB5 visa system has seen us manage over $2.0 billion in transactions, helping thousands of investors navigate the complex immigration system to find the right pathway to permanent residency. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain the five different EB visa types and why they may be right for you.

What Are EB Visas?

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Before we go in-depth on each of the five types of EB visas, let’s first discuss the purpose of the EB visa types. These employment-based immigration programs provide a vital way for workers and investors to secure a permanent future in the United States while contributing to its economic growth and global competitiveness. An EB visa allows individuals the chance to leverage their unique qualifications to achieve their immigration goals.

For professionals looking to further their careers, the EB 1-4 visa categories can open doors to industries such as healthcare, technology, and academia. For investors, the EB-5 route offers the ability to turn a financial contribution in a U.S. business into permanent residency.

So, which path is right for your career and financial aspirations? Here's a quick breakdown of the five EB visa types.

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EB-1: Extraordinary Ability, Outstanding Professors, Researchers, and Multinational Executives. 40,000 visas per year.

EB-2: Advanced Degrees or Exceptional Ability. 40,000 visas per year.

EB-3: Skilled Workers or Other Professionals. 40,000 visas per year.

EB-4: Translators and Religious Workers. 10,000 visas per year.

EB-5: Investent-based Immigration. 10,000 visas per year.

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The EB1 Visa, Explained

The EB-1 visa, often referred to as the “first preference” category in the U.S. employment-based immigration system, is designed for individuals who have achieved exceptional success or possess extraordinary qualifications in their field. This visa category caters to three primary groups:

• Individuals with extraordinary ability (EB-1A)
• Outstanding professors or researchers (EB-1B), and
• Multinational executives or managers (EB-1C).

How Is Eligibility Determined?

For those looking for an EB-1A visa, they must demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim in their field, such as science, arts, education, business, or athletics. In other words, you have to prove that you’ve risen to the top of your field. Individuals in this category can self-petition, eliminating the need for a job offer.

For EB-1B visas, applicants must have at least three years of experience and be recognized internationally for their academic achievements. Additionally, you will need to have a job offer from a U.S. institution to teach or research.

Finally, EB-1C visas require that applicants have worked for at least one year within three years as a manager or executive at a top organization. Those who are transferring to a U.S. branch of the organization are eligible for this visa.

What Are the Benefits?

Compared to other employment-based immigration routes, the EB-1 visa comes with several benefits. One of the biggest is the potential for shorter wait times, as the category is not subject to the same backlogs as an H-1B for example. Your timeline could also be expedited further by EB-1 visas not requiring Department of Labor-issued certifications.

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EB-2 Visas: What Makes Them Different?

The second preference category is reserved for individuals who bring advanced expertise or exceptional abilities to the U.S., particularly in fields like sciences, healthcare, and technology. It is important to note that in certain cases, those with EB-1 visas could switch to an EB-2. With this said, though, the EB-2 type of EB visa is not for executives or professors.

Determining Eligibility

Applicants for this type of EB visa must possess an advanced degree, such as a master’s or PhD. Candidates must demonstrate a level of expertise significantly above what is ordinarily encountered in their field. This can be proven through awards, certifications, or membership in professional associations. Additionally, you must be able to provide documentation from your employer(s) that proves at least ten years of experience in your field. A job offer from a U.S. employer is typically required, but there are exceptions.

Individuals whose work is deemed to be of substantial benefit to the U.S. can self-petition without needing a job offer. This is done through a National Interest Waiver (NIW). For scientists, entrepreneurs, and other professionals, this type of EB visa is particularly attractive.

Benefits of EB-2 Visas

For individuals who have strong qualifications in their field, the EB-2 visa offers the advantage of being accessible. Those currently holding an EB-1 visa may consider transferring to an EB-2 if their circumstances change or if they seek a broader eligibility framework. For instance, professionals who no longer meet the "extraordinary ability" threshold could qualify under "exceptional ability" or the advanced degree criteria.

The added benefit of the NIW option also helps certain immigrants expedite the process of earning employment-based immigration status. Like the EB-1 visa, the EB-2 can provide a more balanced pathway to permanent residency or full-time U.S. citizenship for highly skilled individuals.

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The EB-3 Visa: For Skilled Workers and Professionals

So, what is the difference when comparing EB-1 vs. EB-2 vs. EB-3? While the three may sound similar, this EB visa type appeals to those who may not qualify for the higher thresholds of EB-1 or EB-2 but still possess valuable abilities sought by U.S. employers. EB-3 visas offer a broad range of opportunities, as they include skilled workers and professionals and even unskilled workers in industries where demand for jobs is still high.

What Makes an Applicant Eligible?

Let’s start with skilled workers. In this category, jobs could include computer scientists, journalists, or graphic designers. Applicants must have at least two years of training or experience, which could be satisfied by post-secondary education. On top of this, you must have a full-time offer for a U.S. job and complete a Department of Labor Form ETA-9089 to certify your status.

When we consider professionals, the requirements are similar. Candidates must hold at least a U.S. bachelor’s degree (or a foreign equivalent) required for the position. A major difference is that they must also demonstrate that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the specific role.

Finally, for “other workers” or unskilled workers, you must demonstrate the ability to perform work for which qualified U.S. workers are unavailable. This typically requires less than two years of training or experience, but it is important to note that wait times could be longer for this group due to bigger backlogs.

Understanding “Skilled vs. Unskilled”

The primary difference lies in the job requirements. Skilled workers require specific training or experience, often making their roles more specialized. In contrast, unskilled workers fill essential positions that do not demand formal training, such as roles in agriculture or hospitality.

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EB-4: A Path for Those Not Eligible for EB Visas 1-3

The final employment-based immigration route for those considering EB visas is the EB-4. This EB visa type is a specialized pathway to permanent residency for individuals who fall into unique employment-based classifications. The fourth preference category provides valuable opportunities for those who may not fit into the three categories of EB-1 vs. EB-2 vs. EB-3 to still take control of their U.S. future.

Who Is Eligible?

This category supports “special immigrants” who fall into a few different job categories: religious workers, translators, broadcasters, and certain members of the U.S. government or armed forces who currently reside abroad.

What Is the Benefit?

The EB-4 visa provides an essential pathway for individuals whose roles contribute to the U.S. in non-traditional yet vital ways, such as promoting religious freedom, supporting international diplomacy, or aiding national security.

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EB-5: Investment-Based Immigration

Unlike the four options above, which are focused on employment-based immigration, EB-5 is centered around investment-based immigration. This type of EB visa is perfect for those who want to combine their entrepreneurial ambitions with the chance to obtain a U.S. green card. Since the program is designed to stimulate economic and job growth in the country, there are a few requirements that investors must meet:

1. Investment Totals: Applicants must invest a minimum of $1,050,000 over two years in a new commercial enterprise. If the investment is in a targeted employment area (TEA)—a rural area or one with high unemployment—the minimum investment is reduced to $800,000. While the initial price tag may seem high, investors may be able to recoup the full amount depending on the business project they invest in.
2. Job Creation: Each investor is required to create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for qualifying U.S. workers. For example, if you invested in one of Peachtree Group's EB-5 projects, your money would go towards generating and supporting new positions for construction and operations staff.
3. Background Check: Finally, every EB-5 visa holder must pass a U.S. background check to ensure they have no criminal record.

The Benefits of EB-5 Visas

To qualify for this EB visa type, no previous business or educational experience is required. Anybody who meets the investment and job creation requirements can apply. And while conditional residency is granted for the first two years until you prove the value of your investments, you can treat this very much like having a green card. You’ll be able to live, work, or travel anywhere in the U.S.

Another big benefit of this type of EB visa is that your immediate spouse and any unmarried children under the age of 21 will be eligible as well. This provides you and your family with direct routes to U.S. green cards. You are also not required to have a full-time job offer or corporate sponsor, giving you more freedom and flexibility throughout your immigration process.

At Peachtree Group, our projects help you streamline this process. Our advisors provide expert guidance at every step, helping you through your initial investment and providing all relevant information about our projects and how investors are creating jobs. Plus, our global hotel partners allow you to invest in world-renowned brands such as Marriott, Hilton, and IHG. Want to learn more about how we can help you potentially earn your green card? Visit our website or fill out our contact form and we’ll get back with you right away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the EB visa types?

There are five different types of EB visas. EB visas 1-4 are employment-based immigration visas, while EB-5offers a route for investment-based immigration.

What type of EB visa is right for me?

Choosing the right EB visa type comes down to several factors, including your career, level of education, and job experience. EB-5 visas are available to all who meet certain investment and job creation criteria.

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If you're an international student studying in the United States on a F-1 visa, you might be wondering about your options for staying in the country long-term. While the path to permanent residency might seem complex, the EB-5 immigrant investor program offers an interesting alternative that many students don’t know about. Let's explore how these visa categories differ and what you need to know about making the transition.

Understanding F-1 vs. EB-5: Key Differences

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F-1 Student Visa

• Temporary, non-immigrant visa specifically for academic studies
• Allows students to study at U.S. educational institutions
• Permits limited work through Optional Practical Training (OPT) for 1-3 years
• Requires maintaining student status and school sponsorship
• Students must leave the U.S. after completing studies unless they secure another visa status

EB-5 Immigrant Visa

• Permanent residency path through investment
• No employer or school sponsorship required
• Freedom to live and work anywhere in the United States
• Permanent residents have access to in-state tuition and financial aid
• Includes benefits for spouse and unmarried children under 21
• Minimum investment requirement of $800,000 in qualifying projects
• Must create or preserve 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers

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Can F-1 Visa Holders Apply for an EB-5 Visa?

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The answer is Yes - and you have more flexibility than you might think. As a F-1 visa holder, you can apply for an EB-5 visa at any point during your stay in the United States. Whether you're just starting your first year of school, in the middle of your studies, or even during your Optional Practical Training (OPT) period, the option is available to you.

However, there are some important requirements to keep in mind. You'll need access to the minimum investment amount of $800,000, and if you're presently in the U.S., you must qualify as an accredited investor with at least $1 million in investable assets. Many students receive the funds for their investment through a gift or loans from family members, which is perfectly acceptable, as long as you can demonstrate that the money comes from legitimate sources.

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How Long Does the Process Take?

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When it comes to processing times, flexibility is key. The timeline for obtaining your EB-5 visa after applying from F-1 status can vary significantly, primarily depending on how quickly the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) processes applications. Currently, processing times typically range from 4 to 18 months. While there aren't set deadlines or guaranteed timeframes, there's good news - concurrent adjust filing options may be available, which can help streamline the process and provide you with work and travel authorization.

If you are considering this path, it's smart to apply early, ideally while concurrent filing is available for your country of origin. This gives you the best chance of completing the process before your F-1 visa or OPT expires.

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The Freedom of No Sponsorship

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One of the most attractive aspects of the EB-5 visa is the independence it offers. Unlike your F-1 visa, which ties you to a specific school and requires maintaining student status, or an H1-B visa that ties you to an employer, the EB-5 visa gives you complete freedom. You won't need an employer sponsor or school sponsorship, and there are no restrictions on where or how you work. Want to start your own business? You can do that. Interested in changing jobs or moving to a different state? That's completely fine too.  You can also apply to internships during the school year and participate in the recruitment process so that upon graduation you do not have the stress of the OPT process.

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The Full Picture of Benefits

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The advantages of choosing the EB-5 path go beyond just employment freedom. You're not dealing with any lottery systems or random selection processes like some other visa categories. Instead, you're on a direct path to permanent residency without the hassle of ongoing renewals. If concurrent filing is available, you might even be able to file for adjustment of status while your EB-5 petition is processing.

For students pursuing higher education in the United States, the EB-5 visa can offer significant tuition advantages. As lawful permanent residents, EB-5 visa holders qualify for in-state tuition rates at public universities after establishing residency in their chosen state, typically after living there for12 months. This can result in substantial savings compared to the higher rates charged to international students or out-of-state residents.

In addition, EB-5 visa holders, as permanent residents, have significantly better access to financial aid opportunities compared to international students. They can apply for federal student loans through FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and qualify for government-backed education loans with more favorable interest rates and repayment terms than private international student loans. Additionally, permanent residents are eligible for many scholarships and grants that are restricted to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, opening a much broader range of funding opportunities that are unavailable to international students. This includes merit-based scholarships from universities, need-based institutional aid, and various state and federal grant programs.

Your family benefits too. With an EB-5 visa your spouse and unmarried children under 21 are eligible for green cards without any additional investment required. This means access to American educational opportunities and the ability for your spouse to work freely in the U.S.

It's also worth noting that the $800,000 requirement isn't just a fee, it's an investment that you may potentially recover after the minimum investment period. While you're working toward your green card, your investment is contributing to U.S. economic growth and job creation.

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Making Your Transition Successful

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Timing is crucial when planning your transition. Keep an eye on concurrent filing availability for your country and plan around your F-1 visa and OPT expiration dates. You'll need to think about securing the minimum investment amount, meeting accredited investor requirements if applicable, and gathering all necessary documentation.

Speaking of documentation, you'll need to prepare quite a bit of paperwork. This includes proof of where your investment funds came from, investment documentation, verification of your current F-1 status, academic records, and financial statements. While it might seem overwhelming, proper organization and preparation can make the process much smoother. It is important to work with an experienced immigration attorney that has vast experience representing investors for the EB-5 Visa as this will ensure that your petition and documentation is in compliance with the program's requirements.

 
Taking the Next Step

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The EB-5 program offers a unique opportunity for F-1 students to secure permanent residency through investment. Yes, the initial financial requirement is substantial, but the benefits of permanent residency, career freedom, and family inclusion make it worth considering if you have the means to invest.

Success in this transition comes down to careful planning, thorough preparation, and timely application. Given the complexity of immigration law and investment requirements, it's wise to work with qualified immigration attorneys and investment advisors who can guide you through the process and ensure you meet all program requirements. They can help you understand the nuances of your specific situation and maximize your chances of a successful transition from student to permanent resident.

Peachtree Group has more than 40 years’ experience in EB-5 investing. Have questions about EB-5, visit our website or fill out our contact form.

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