EB-5 Updates and Statistics

In a December 14, 2009, meeting, USCIS has provided some helpful information about the current state of the EB-5 program.

I-526 Premium Processing Possible Later in the Year

A review of the question of reinstating premium processing for I-526 petitions will be done during the second quarter of 2010.  USCIS will reinstate premium processing if it determines that it has sufficient resources at the California Service Center to adjudicate I-526 within the 15-calendar day window.

EB-5 Statistics

As of December 14, 2009, USCIS was able to provide only statistics for fiscal year 2009 (FY 2009).  Accordingly, in FY 2009, where were 1,028 I-526 petitions (EB-5 immigrant petition) filed, of which 966 were approved and 163 denied.   Also, in FY 2009, where were 437 I-829 (removal of condition) petitions filed of which 335 were approved and 55 denied.

Note that these numbers do not add up because not all petitions filed during FY 2009 are adjudicated during FY 2009.  Additionally, some petitions filed during FY 2008 are adjudicated during FY 2009 and are included in the numbers above.