What is Form I-526E and How to File 

Form I-526E, Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor, is used by foreign investors who are pooling their investment through the EB-5 Regional Center Program. By filing this form with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the investor requests to qualify as an immigrant under Form I-526E, Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor, is a crucial tool for foreign investors engaging in the EB-5 Regional Center Program. By submitting this form to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), investors actively seek classification as immigrants under section 203(b)(5)(E) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Purpose of Form I-526E

The main purpose of Form I-526E is to establish eligibility for EB-5 classification through a regional center. Investors who are not pooling their investment must instead file Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Standalone Investor for their application.

By submitting Form I-526E, the applicant shows that they have invested or are actively in the process of investing the required amount of capital in a new commercial enterprise (NCE) associated with a USCIS-approved regional center. The investment must create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.

Who May File Form I-526E

An immigration attorney may file Form I-526E on behalf of their client if they meet the following conditions:

• They have invested or are in the process of investing the required amount of capital.
• The investment is in a USCIS-designated regional center project.
• The new commercial enterprise will benefit the U.S. economy and create at least 10 full-time jobs for qualifying U.S. workers.
• The investment amounts are set by statute and may vary depending on whether the project is in a rural area, a high unemployment area, or another qualifying designation.

Key Filing Instructions

When preparing Form I-526E, investors must keep in mind several important elements:

Signature

The petition must be properly signed by the investor or authorized representative (attorney). USCIS does not accept stamped or typewritten names in place of signatures.

Filing Fee

USCIS Form G-1055 shows the current filing fee for Form I-526E, which is $11,160, effective April 1, 2024.

Evidence

Required evidence includes:

• Proof of investment or active process of investment (bank statements, contracts, escrow documents).
• Evidence that investment funds came from lawful sources.
• Identification documents (passport or government-issued ID).
• Receipt from the regional center’s Form I-956F approval.

Biometric Services

USCIS may require biometrics (fingerprints, photo, signature) and an interview to verify identity and conduct security checks.

Translations

Any document in a foreign language must be accompanied by a full English translation by a certified translator.

Evidence of Lawful Source of Funds

Investors must provide documentation showing that their capital was obtained legally. This may include tax returns, business records, or evidence of gifts or loans.

Validity of Signatures

USCIS accepts scanned or faxed copies of original handwritten signatures.

How to Complete Form I-526E

• Type or print in black ink.
• Full and accurate answers. Use “N/A” or “None” where applicable.
• Attach additional sheets if needed and reference the page, part, and item number.
• Include personal details, immigration history, employment history, and family information as required.
• Provide information about the regional center, the NCE, and the investment amounts.

Processing and Decision

Once filed, USCIS reviews the petition for completeness and may request additional information. The agency may also schedule an interview. A written decision will be issued confirming whether the investor qualifies for the EB-5 visa through Form I-526E.

Checklist Before Filing Form I-526E

• Confirm you are investing through a USCIS-designated regional center
• Verify the required investment amount under current EB-5 program rules
• Prepare documentation showing lawful source of investment funds
• Obtain Form I-956F receipt notice from the regional center
• Complete all sections of Form I-526E accurately
• Include identification documents (passport or government ID)
• Sign the petition with a valid handwritten signature
• Pay the correct filing fee listed by USCIS
• Translate all foreign-language documents into English with certification
• Keep a copy of your completed petition for records