At the end of those two years, Marco must prove that his money was actually used and that the 10 jobs were indeed created. Only after this verification is the "condition" removed, and he finally receives his unconditional Green Card . Summary of Costs & Realities EB-5 Investor Visa Details Minimum "Price" $800,000 (TEA) or $1,050,000 (Standard) Additional Fees ~ $220–$325 Immigrant Fee + Legal/Medical fees Key Requirement Creation of 10 U.S. jobs Timeframe Often 2+ years for conditional status
Buying a green card from a private individual or an "online shop" is a scam . The only legal ways to obtain one are through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) , typically via family sponsorship, employment, or the Diversity Visa Lottery . can you buy a green card
For someone like "Marco," a successful entrepreneur from abroad, the goal is to move his family to the U.S. permanently. Since he doesn't have a U.S. employer or immediate family members who are citizens, he looks into the "investment" route. At the end of those two years, Marco
It isn't just about the money sitting in a bank. Marco’s investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for qualified U.S. workers. He chooses to invest through a "Regional Center," which allows him to pool his money with other investors into large projects like hotels or apartment complexes. jobs Timeframe Often 2+ years for conditional status
Marco submits his initial petition (Form I-526). If approved, he doesn't get a "permanent" green card immediately. Instead, he receives conditional permanent residency for two years. During this time, he and his family can live and work in the U.S., but they are under observation.
Marco learns that "buying" this opportunity requires a massive financial commitment. As of 2026, the standard minimum investment is $1,050,000 . However, if he invests in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) —a rural area or a place with high unemployment—the price drops to $800,000 .