A key 2026 deadline could determine eligibility, costs, and long-term benefits under the US investor visa programme.
April 27, 2026: Foreign nationals eyeing the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program to secure a US green card are being urged to act quickly, with September 30, 2026 emerging as a crucial cutoff date. While the EB-5 Regional Center Program remains authorised until 2027, experts believe applications filed before this 2026 deadline could be “grandfathered,” allowing investors to retain current rules even if future changes are introduced.
The urgency is also driven by expected increases in investment thresholds. Currently, applicants must invest $1,050,000, or $800,000 in targeted employment areas or infrastructure projects. However, under the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act, these amounts will be adjusted for inflation starting January 2027, with revisions every five years. Missing the 2026 window could therefore mean significantly higher financial commitments.
Introduced by the United States Congress in 1990 to promote economic growth and job creation, the EB-5 programme has evolved over time with stricter compliance measures. For Indian investors in particular, the 2026 deadline is seen as a critical dividing line. The visa offers a pathway to permanent residency through investment in US businesses that generate employment, making it a popular option for families seeking global mobility, education opportunities, and business expansion.