I have read that EB-5 regional center fees are typically $50,000 (which is in addition to the $500,000 already required). Can I pay the regional center fee in installments over 2-3 years, or are they required to be paid up front?
The regional center fees are largely determined by the agreement between each regional center and the investor. There is no general guideline for the EB-5 industry on this issue. Advisably, ask any regional center you contact prior to signing an agreement.
The admin fees can be paid off as you arrange with the regional center. It is strongly advised that the $500,000 be in the investment at the time of filing.
Most, if not all, regional centers will require that all of the administrative/syndication fees be paid up front, i.e., at the same time as the $500,000 investment.
This fee is required by the regional center. As I know, they are required to pay from the beginning with the investment of $500,000. You can negotiate with the regional center if they allow you to pay in installments.
Most regional centers are likely to require you to pay the fees up front. This is because their subscription agreements require it. Some regional centers may agree to rebate or discount their fees, in certain cases.
The fees can be anywhere from $30,000 to $60,000, in our experience, but some do not charge any administration fee. It depends on the regional center, but most require that amount right before or at the same time as making the full $500,000 investment. Since administration fees are completely separate from the immigration requirements, you may be able to work out a payment plan with the regional center.
John J Downey
Immigration Attorney
Answered on
It is up to the regional center. I believe most of them require the full amount up front. You should contact the regional center and see if you can negotiate a payment plan.
Jinhee Wilde
Immigration Attorney
Answered on
Since most of the subscription agreements specify that there is $50,000 syndication/administrative fee for the regional centers, if you do not pay that up front before filing the I-526, USCIS will note this and find that you have not made the full $500,000 investment and issue either a Request for Evidence or Notice of Intent to Deny asking you to show that you have fully committed $500,000 in EB-5 investment. If the regional center will issue a waiver stating that they are postponing the collection of their syndication fee to be included in the I-526 petition, it may work, but I do not know of any regional center that will do that.
There is no requirement in the EB-5 regulations to pay any fees. However, these payments are usually a matter of contract and you should discuss this issue with the regional center concerned.
This is the administration fee and most regional centers require that it be paid prior to filing. However, this can be negotiated and there may be an agreement to change this, or even to waive part of it.