The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that starting from March 15, 2023, petitioners filing Form I-526E, Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor, will no longer have to submit biometrics or pay the $85 fee. This decision by USCIS is based on its determination that biometric submission is not necessary to confirm compliance with the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) 203(b)(5)(H)(i)-(ii).
The USCIS has released a revised edition of Form I-526E dated 03/15/23, with updated instructions. Starting from May 15, USCIS will only accept the new edition of the form. The USCIS will refund the biometrics fees paid by petitioners who filed before the new policy came into effect.
Form I-526E was first published in July 2022, and it is used by investors pooling their investments with one or more qualified immigrants participating in the Regional Center Program to petition USCIS for status as an immigrant to the United States under section 203(b)(5) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
This decision by USCIS is a welcome development for investors looking to participate in the Regional Center Program. It will simplify the application process and reduce the financial burden on investors. This move is expected to encourage more investors to participate in the program and contribute to the growth of the US economy.
If you have questions about the regional center investor filing fee requirements or any other immigration-related issue, contact us at ILBSG. We actively monitor ongoing updates to U.S. immigration policy and work with our clients in their particular situations to ensure they get the right advice.
