US EB-5 visa with increasing number of applications

Last week, USCIS, the USCIS, released new data for the second quarter of fiscal 2024, which includes applications processed from January 1, 2014 to March 31, 2024.

The new numbers look positive: the number of new applicants is increasing and the citizenship office is doing better.

New applications – Petition I-526

The first step in the EB-5 program is to apply for conditional residency in the United States. To apply, applicants must invest their funds and prove that the source of their funds is legitimate.

1,879 new EB-5 applicants filed in the second quarter, the highest number of quarterly filings since the 2022 EB-5 Reforms and Consolidation Act (RIA). This is more than three times more than the same period in fiscal year 2023, which was only 535 people; And three times more than the first quarter of 2024.

The choice of 69 of the new applicants was to start their own business, while the vast majority chose the option of a regional center or investment by institutions approved by the US Citizenship Department.

The applications reviewed in the second quarter of 2024 were mainly for investors before the Reforms and Integration Act who filed their applications before March 2022. 1874 investors finally received the answer to their request, which was rejected by 23%. Additionally, USCIS processed only 172 forms from investors who filed after the RIA or the Amendment Act.

In total, USCIS processed 2,046 I-526 petitions, the most number of I-526 petitions reviewed since March 2022. The number of people awaiting review is also the lowest it has been in several years: 10,605 investors, of whom 6,666 applied before March 2022.

Request to Remove Condition – I-829 Petition

The EB-5 program requires the creation of 10 new jobs, which the investor must demonstrate in a second application, Form I-829 Application for Waiver of Conditions. The investor will be able to register this form after two years of conditional residence in the United States.

US Citizenship and Immigration Services has received 237 requests to remove conditions in the second quarter of 2024. In the same period, 1,938 applications were reviewed, of which only 4% were rejected. This number is very good compared to the first quarter of 2024 when 87 applications were reviewed and 352 petitions in the second quarter of 2023.

USCIS still has 7,367 applicants awaiting a decision. However, the trend towards fewer pending applications continues. Keep in mind that this type of visa is different from getting a US tourist visa.

Statistics of the regional center

76 new regional centers have applied to register with USCIS, more than double the number in the first quarter of 2024, when only 33 forms were filed.

The number of new projects registered in the US Citizenship Department was 88, which is more than the first quarter of 2024 with 50 forms and the second quarter of 2023 with 64 forms.

Third party promoters

As of the 2022 Amendments Act, all foreign companies promoting EB-5 projects must register with USCIS. The registration form is I-956K.

124 new applications for initial registration, amendments and new employees were registered in the second quarter of 2024. A total of 925 applications are being reviewed. So far, none of them have been confirmed or denied.

The EB-5 program is entering a new phase that many experts call the “Golden Age” of EB-5. Although there is still much uncertainty about the rules of the program, the number of applicants is increasing, there are more and better projects on the market, and USCIS is improving its efficiency.

A comprehensive guide to obtaining an entry permit to visit America

Visiting America is very popular among tourists due to its many attractions, rich history, and lively cities. However, to travel to this country, you must obtain permission to enter as a temporary visitor. Here we discuss the process of applying for this license and important tips to increase the chances of acceptance.

Application conditions

To get a permit to enter as a tourist, you must first meet the basic requirements. These requirements include having a valid passport, filling out the relevant forms, and providing financial and employment documentation that shows that your intention is only for a short-term visit and that you will return to your country after the trip.

Application procedures

1. Complete the online application form: The first step is to fill out the DS-160 application form online. This form includes personal information, travel history, and your travel goals.
2. Pay the application fee: After completing the form, you have to pay the application fee online. This fee is non-refundable and must be paid before scheduling an interview.
3. Schedule an interview at the embassy: After payment, you will need to schedule an interview at the nearest US embassy or consulate. It is recommended to apply early, as interview times may be limited.
4. interview: On the day of the interview, you must be present in person and answer the immigration officer’s questions about your travel purposes, financial resources, and return plans.

Read more: A complete guide to obtaining US residency

Important tips for success in the interview

• Honesty and transparency: Your answers should be accurate and without contradictions. Immigration officers are looking for honesty and transparency in your answers.
• Full documentation: Submit the required documents in full, including financial documents, hotel reservations, and return tickets. These documents show that you have the financial ability to travel and intend to return.
• self confidence: Answer the questions with confidence. Prior preparation and knowledge of travel details can be effective in your success.