EB-5 Applications: What Goes Wrong (and How to Avoid It)
The EB-5 investor visa is one of the most powerful ways to move to the US, but the process is detailed, paperwork-heavy, and unforgiving of mistakes. Here’s what we’ve seen trip people up the most.
- Weak documentation of funds
This is where most applications fall apart. It’s not enough to say you have the money. You have to show where every bit of it came from, how it moved, and why it’s legal. People often underestimate how much detail is needed.
What helps: Think of it as storytelling with proof. Add everything. Old tax returns, salary slips, property sales, bank transfers, loan documents. The more complete the picture, the fewer the questions.
- Choosing the wrong regional centre
Some applicants invest in centres that aren’t properly vetted. Others go by marketing material and don’t look deeper. If the centre has a shaky past or isn’t approved, it creates delays and doubt.
What helps: Ask the hard questions. Who’s behind the project? How many applicants got their green cards? What’s their track record?
- Misunderstanding job creation
Your investment needs to lead to 10 full-time jobs for US workers. That sounds simple, but people often miscount or rely on jobs that don’t meet USCIS criteria.
What helps: Don’t assume. Look at the business plan. Check how the jobs will be counted. If it’s through a regional centre, ask for the model they use to prove job creation.
- Not fulfilling the investment requirement
The investment must be in before your petition is filed. It has to be real money in a real project. Not promised, not half-done, not sitting in your account.
What helps: Confirm the amount and timing with your legal team. Make sure it meets the minimum based on where you’re investing.
- Confusion around TEA rules
If you’re planning to invest in a targeted employment area to qualify for the lower amount, you need clear proof that the location qualifies. That can’t be assumed or self-declared.
What helps: Get the official TEA designation letter. Don’t rely on marketing materials or word of mouth.
Bottom line:
The EB-5 process asks for a lot: documents, timelines, proof, and precision. But most of the common setbacks can be avoided with the right information and a little guidance.
Be clear about where your money came from. Choose your regional centre with care. Understand how job creation is measured. Make sure your investment meets the required amount. And if you’re applying under the TEA category, double-check the location status.
If you’re applying or planning to, we’re here to guide you. We’ll help you get the details right, the documentation clear, and the process smooth.
Farro & Co
Phone: +65 6978 8450
Email: contact@farroandco.com
Website: farroandco.com
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While Farro & Co Advisors Pte. Ltd. and/or Farro & Co – FZCO, (collectively known as “Farro & Co”) aims to provide helpful information, this presentation is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice regarding investments, legal matters, or taxation. Please consult qualified advisors in these areas for guidance specific to your situation.
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The information presented reflects the understanding at the time of preparation and is subject to change without notice. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, no guarantees are provided by Farro & Co regarding the completeness or reliability of the content. Any reliance placed on this information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.