Which of the following is a key advantage of a regional center EB-5 investment over a direct investment?
Select one answer.
EB-5 regional center vs direct investment: key differences to choose your path
If you're pursuing a U.S. green card through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, one of the first decisions you'll face is whether to invest directly in your own business or through a USCIS-approved regional center. Both paths require a minimum investment of $800,000 in a targeted employment area (TEA) or $1,050,000 elsewhere, and both require creating at least 10 full-time U.S. jobs. But the way you meet those requirements — and your level of involvement — differs significantly.
Active vs. passive investment
A direct EB-5 investment means you put capital into your own U.S. commercial enterprise — a restaurant, manufacturing company, franchise, or any lawful for-profit business. You must be engaged in day-to-day management or policy formation. This is a hands-on role suited to entrepreneurs who want control over operations and decision-making.
A regional center investment is more passive. You commit capital to a project managed by a third-party entity approved by USCIS. You become a limited partner or similar passive stakeholder and do not manage the project directly. This option appeals to investors who prefer a less active role.
Job creation: direct vs. indirect
The most critical difference lies in how jobs are counted. Under the EB-5 program, each investor must create at least 10 full-time positions for qualifying U.S. workers.
- Direct investments can only count direct jobs — W-2 employees of the business you own. You cannot count indirect or induced jobs. This means your business must hire at least 10 people directly.
- Regional center investments can count direct, indirect, and induced jobs. Up to 90% of the job creation requirement may be met using indirect jobs, according to USCIS. Indirect jobs are positions created in supporting industries — for example, suppliers or service providers — as a result of the investment. An economic analysis by a qualified economist is typically required to demonstrate these jobs.
Processing times and costs
Direct EB-5 petitions generally take longer to process. As of 2026, the average processing time for a direct I-526 petition is around 27.5 months, while regional center petitions average about 13.5 months. Direct investments also typically involve lower administrative fees, as you avoid regional center management fees and administrative charges.
Which path is right for you?
Choose a direct investment if you want full control over your business, have entrepreneurial experience, and are prepared to manage day-to-day operations. Choose a regional center if you prefer a passive investment, want to leverage indirect job creation, and seek faster processing.
Quiz: test your knowledge
Which of the following is a key advantage of a regional center EB-5 investment over a direct investment?
- A. Investors can count indirect and induced jobs toward the 10-job requirement.
- B. Investors must actively manage the business.
- C. Direct jobs are the only type of jobs that can be counted.
Correct answer: A. Regional center investments can count indirect and induced jobs, while direct investments are limited to direct jobs.
How the Immigration Attorney Can Help
Choosing between a regional center and direct EB-5 investment requires careful analysis of your goals, risk tolerance, and immigration timeline. Kyle D. Mitchell, Esq. — EB-5 Investor Visa Attorney in NYC — specializes in guiding investors through both pathways. His boutique firm offers personalized legal services, detailed source-of-funds documentation support, and community engagement with over 3,000 verified members. To discuss your options, visit mitchelleb5.com.