Form I-526 / I-526E
Immigrant Petition by Standalone Investor / Regional Center Investor
Begin the EB-5 immigrant investor process by documenting an investment of $800,000 (TEA) or $1,050,000 and job creation tied to a qualifying commercial enterprise.
Filing fee
$11,160
Processing time
24–60 months
Varies by service center
Online filing
Paper only
Mail to USCIS lockbox
Form edition
2024
Only the current edition is accepted
Who files Form I-526 / I-526E?
Foreign investors pursuing EB-5 status through a standalone business (I-526) or a designated regional center project (I-526E).
Where to file
Mail to the Investor Program Office in Washington, DC.
Always verify the current address or online filing option on the official USCIS Form I-526 / I-526E page before sending — lockbox assignments change.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Failing to trace source of funds through legitimate channels
- Investing in a project without confirming Targeted Employment Area designation
- Not budgeting for the large I-829 condition-removal fee two years later
Filing tips
- EB-5 set-aside categories (rural, high unemployment, infrastructure) currently have shorter waits
- Consult an experienced EB-5 securities and immigration team — not a general immigration attorney
Frequently asked questions
What is Form I-526 / I-526E?
Begin the EB-5 immigrant investor process by documenting an investment of $800,000 (TEA) or $1,050,000 and job creation tied to a qualifying commercial enterprise.
Who files Form I-526 / I-526E?
Foreign investors pursuing EB-5 status through a standalone business (I-526) or a designated regional center project (I-526E).
How much is the Form I-526 / I-526E filing fee?
The current filing fee is $11,160. Confirm the current amount on USCIS.gov before filing — fees changed most recently in the 2024 USCIS fee rule.
How long does Form I-526 / I-526E take to process?
USCIS currently reports 24 months to 60 months for most cases. Processing times vary by service center and workload. Check the USCIS Case Processing Times tool for the latest estimates.
Can I file Form I-526 / I-526E online?
No. Form I-526 / I-526E must be filed on paper and mailed to the designated USCIS lockbox or service center. Check the form's official USCIS page for the correct mailing address.
Related forms
Cost deep dive
Looking for a full cost breakdown including biometric fees, fee waivers, and payment methods? See the Form I-526 / I-526E cost page.
Sources & Citations
All claims in this guide link to primary government sources.
- 1
- 2USCIS Case Processing Times— USCIS
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Not legal advice. This page is a plain-English summary for educational use. Current fees, processing times, and filing locations are controlled by USCIS and may change without notice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.