New to the EB-5 Program?: Learn How It Works
Achieve U.S. Residency with Direct Real Estate Investment
A Secure, Transparent Approach
The process of obtaining a U.S. Green Card through direct investment in real estate is straightforward and offers you peace of mind.
1. Initial Consultation:
We begin by understanding your financial goals and explaining how the EB-5 program works. Our experts will walk you through potential investment options and help you choose the right high-value real estate projects for your needs.
2. Select Your Property:
We present a selection of income-generating properties; including restaurants, shopping plazas, and accommodations; that meet the $800,000 minimum investment threshold. Each property is chosen for its potential to create jobs and provide long-term returns, giving you the control and transparency you need.
3. Secure Your Investment:
Once you select a property, we handle all the necessary legal, financial, and compliance documentation. You’re making an investment in a tangible, profitable asset that meets EB-5 requirements and creates jobs for U.S. workers, ensuring that you fulfill the program's job creation mandate.
4. Apply for Your EB-5 Visa:
After your investment is secured, we assist with your I-526 petition, the first step in your EB-5 visa application. Our experienced team ensures that your application is filed correctly and on time, minimizing the risk of delays.
5. Conditional Green Card:
Once your I-526 petition is approved, you, along with your family, can apply for a two-year conditional Green Card. After this period, we guide you through the process of removing the conditions and securing permanent residency.
Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Your U.S. Residency?
Start ProcessA Step-by-Step Guide to the EB-5 Cost & Process
The path to permanent residency through the EB-5 program can be complex and time-consuming. While partnering with the right immigration attorney and investment options is crucial, we highly recommend educating yourself about the process to be fully prepared. We’ve compiled a detailed step-by-step guide, along with answers to frequently asked questions, to help you navigate the journey. If you have any doubts or need more information, we're here to assist you every step of the way.
EB-5 Process
- 1. Select an EB-5 Project:After you’ve had an initial call with us, take a look at our portfolio of past projects to get a sense for the kinds of projects The Ridge Partners has completed. With The Ridge Partners, every project has been thoroughly vetted so you can rest assured that you’re making a safe, secure investment in compliance with all EB-5 visa requirements.
- 2. Choosing the Investment Model for You:Unlike most other centers, The Ridge Partners offers two investment options.
Option A: Full Investment (Preferred Equity - Lump Sum Payment)
With Option A, you invest the full $800,000 in a single project. This model follows a preferred equity structure, similar to an EB-5 "loan model," where investors receive a fixed return on their investment, ensuring predictable earnings.
Option B: Pooled Investment (Equity Ownership - Flexible Payment Plan)
For those who may not have the full $800,000 available immediately, Option B allows for a pooled investment structure, where you can contribute to a larger project alongside other investors. In this option, you can take advantage of a flexible payment plan to meet the $800,000 threshold. While your portion will still represent an equity stake in the project, the payment plan offers a more gradual approach to securing the required investment, with installments designed to help you reach the $800,000 mark. - 3. Capital Investment:Funding Your Investment; once you have a project selected, you will need to provide your investment funds to us ($800,000 or a share of your funds + syndication fees depending on project).
- 4. File Form I-526E:You’ll be assigned an immigration attorney with substantial EB-5 experience to help you prepare documentation that proves a lawful source of funds, as well as file an I-526E petition to the USCIS on your behalf. You will then need to wait to receive I-526E approval from the U.S. government before proceeding unless you are able to use concurrent filing.
- 5. Visa Application:Once you receive approval, what you do next will depend on your unique situation. If you live in the U.S. in lawful status and are otherwise eligible, your immigration attorney will file form I-485 so you can adjust your status. If you live outside the U.S., you will file a form DS-260 with the National Visa Center. You will then interview at a local embassy or consulate when a visa is available, and receive your immigrant visa. If you are not living in the U.S., you will need to enter the U.S. within 150 days.
- 6. Conditional Green Card:Once you enter the United States, you will receive a 2-year conditional permanent resident status. You’re only a few steps away from a permanent green card.
- 7. File Form I-829:After the two years of conditional residency, you will file an I-829 petition to remove the conditions on your residency. You will want to file removal of those conditions within 90 days of the end of the 2-year conditional resident period. The Ridge Partners will supply all supporting evidence that you met the requirements of the EB-5 program including evidence of the limited partnership’s success, your sustained capital investment, and the creation of direct and indirect employment.
- 8. Permanent Green Card:Once the I-829 petition is filed with the USCIS, your conditional permanent residency is extended while you wait for your official approval from USCIS. Once you receive final approval, you will receive a permanent residency card. You are now able to stay in the United States indefinitely.
- 9. Eligibility for Citizenship:Optional: Become a U.S. Citizen. The EB-5 program not only provides a pathway to permanent residency, but U.S. citizenship as well. Five years after receiving your first conditional green card, you are eligible to file an N-400 naturalization application with USCIS to become a U.S. Citizen. Congratulations!
Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Your U.S. Residency?
Start ProcessSupport You Can Count On
Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to providing our investors a positive experience as they complete their EB-5 investment journey.
Investor Support
- • We’ll provide a fully developed project filing template and support to your immigration attorney in their preparation and submission of your I-526E petition.
- • We’ll provide assistance in addressing any questions, updates or concerns USCIS might ask regarding the I-829 project you have invested in.
- • We provide regular updates on the progress of the project and required job creation.
- • You will have secure access to project information and other documentation 24 hours a day via our online Investor Portal.
- • You are always welcome to visit the project or come see us at our offices at any pre-arranged time.
- • Once open and operating, you will receive quarterly updates regarding the financial performance of your project, including financial reports and declared profit distributions for the financial period.
- • Your profit distribution will be promptly sent directly to your bank account at the conclusion of each business quarter via electronic deposit (ACH).
- • We will complete the preparation of your annual U.S. tax K-1 form (or K-3, if appropriate).
- • You have access to our investor relations department for any further questions or concerns.
- • We will provide a filing template and full support to your immigration attorney in their preparation and submission of your I-829 template when eligible, including all evidence to support sustainment and required job creation.
And of course, you have the full support from our team of financial and real estate professionals regarding your investment, whether you choose to remain invested with The Ridge Partners, or you decide to leave the partnership and sell your investment.
Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Your U.S. Residency?
Start ProcessInvest in U.S. Real Estate to Secure Your Green Card.
Take control of your EB-5 journey with direct investments in U.S. real estate.
Unlike regional centers, which may involve longer timelines and equity challenges, direct investments offer personal assets like restaurants, shopping plazas, and accommodations, providing clearer ownership and more control over your $800,000 investment for a transparent path to U.S. residency.
Your Trusted Partner in Direct EB-5 Investments
At The Ridge Partners, we specialize in helping serious investors navigate the EB-5 visa process through direct investment opportunities in real estate. Unlike traditional regional centers, we offer you the chance to invest in personal, tangible, high-value properties worth $800,000 or more. Whether it’s a restaurant, a shopping plaza, or an accommodation project, you can be confident that your investment is not only securing your future but also giving you a stake in profitable, growing businesses. Our team of experts ensures a smooth, efficient process, from selecting the right property to managing your investment. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
See the Success We've Created for Our Investors
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2,300+ EB-5 Visas Granted
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1,100+ Investors
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650+ Projects Completed
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100% Required EB-5 Job Creation
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$1 B Total Market Value
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$225 M Capital Returned
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1,500+ I-829 Approvals
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$285 M Profit Distributions
Our $1 Billion Investor-Backed Real Estate Portfolio
Our portfolio of strategically developed EB-5 equity projects demonstrates our proven track record in creating impactful, job-generating developments that drive community growth. These successful ventures not only enrich the areas we invest in but also provide our investors with a pathway to achieving the American dream.
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Direct Investment offers more control than Regional Centers.
See what sets The Ridge Partners apart from most regional center programs.
Is the EB-5 Program Right for You?
Start your EB-5 journey by checking if you meet the eligibility requirements. To qualify, you must:
- Make a Qualifying Investment: $1.05 million, or $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA).
- Source of Funds: Prove your investment comes from a legal source.
- Job Creation: Your investment must create 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
- Business Involvement: You may need to take an active role in overseeing the business.
- Risk: Your investment must be at risk with the goal of generating a return.
Consider these factors to determine if the EB-5 program aligns with your immigration goals.
Investment Requirements for EB-5 through The Ridge Partners
- Minimum Investment: Invest $800,000 (or $1.05 million depending on the project location) plus any syndication fees.
- Job Creation: Your investment will help finance a U.S. development project that creates a minimum of 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers per investor.
- Source of Funds: You must demonstrate that your investment funds come from a lawful source, such as personal savings or business earnings.
- Risk and Return: Your investment must be at risk with the goal of generating a return, while providing an opportunity for U.S. permanent residency.
Any Questions?
If you’re unsure if you qualify based on the criteria listed here, feel free to contact us.
Send us a messageNew Beginnings, Real Stories.
EB-5 Visa FAQs
Want to know more? Browse frequently asked questions about the EB-5 visa program or head to our FAQ page to learn more.
How do I qualify for the EB-5 program?
Take a look at the criteria for the EB-5 program and see if it’s the right match for you.
- You are able to invest the required minimum amount (starting at $800,000 + syndication fees, depending on the location of the project)
- Your investment through The Ridge Partners finances a development project in the United States that will create a minimum of 10 full-time jobs per investor for U.S. workers
- You are able to demonstrate that your investment funds come from a lawful source
- You have a willingness to place capital at risk with the goal of generating a return
What are the benefits of the EB-5 program?
Work — EB-5 permanent residents are allowed to work for any company in the U.S. In some states you can only obtain professional licenses (engineering, real estate agents, etc.) if you have a U.S. green card or are a U.S. citizen.
Business — EB-5 permanent residents can start their own business anywhere in the U.S.
Travel — EB-5 green card holders can travel anywhere within the U.S. and leave and enter the country freely as permanent residents.
Legal rights — EB-5 permanent residents’ legal rights are protected under U.S. law, except the right to vote, which is available after you become a U.S. citizen.
Family members — EB-5 permanent residents can sponsor a spouse and unmarried children (under age 21) included in the same green card petition.
Education — EB-5 permanent residents generally enjoy in-state or resident tuition at all public universities and colleges. Typically, this rate is two to four times less expensive than the rate foreign students have to pay.
Home — EB-5 permanent residents will find it easier to be approved for a home mortgage and/or to obtain lower interest rates.
Retirement — EB-5 permanent residents enjoy the same Social Security benefits as a U.S. citizen after they have worked in the U.S. for ten years.
Citizenship — EB-5 permanent residents are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship and have a U.S. passport. You can also keep your permanent green card forever if you choose not to become a U.S. citizen as long as you maintain U.S. residency.
How much does it cost to participate in the EB-5 program?
The total cost of the EB-5 process includes the minimum investment amount of $800,000 for projects located in designated Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs), i.e., rural areas or infrastructure projects, or $1,050,000 if located elsewhere.
In addition to the capital investment and any syndication fees, applicants should budget for legal fees, administration fees, and a USCIS filing fee–the combined total of which can sometimes exceed $100K.
Is there a difference between a green card and an EB-5 visa?
The EB-5 visa program provides a path for eligible immigrant investors to become lawful permanent residents–informally known as “green card” holders. In that sense, the EB-5 visa is a “green card.”
How long can I stay with an EB-5 visa?
The EB-5 visa acts as a permanent green card allowing the recipient to stay in the U.S. indefinitely. However, once you obtain your EB-5 visa, it is generally advisable that you do not leave the U.S. for any continuous period longer than six months. You may also lose your permanent residency status if you are found guilty of a crime or do not file U.S. tax returns.
How many EB-5 visas are allocated each year for the EB-5 program?
The EB-5 investment program allocates 10,000 visas per year for investors and their family members. There is also a quota or cap per country that can affect the timing of the issuance of your EB-5 visa.