[HOT] Track Records of Regional Center Programs in General

We would be lying to you if we told you we know the track records of all regional centers, or even detailed track records of "major" regional centers. USCIS does not keep track records by individual regional centers, and unless you are the actual general partner managing the specific regional center, no one knows the inside story of that regional center. However, we will endeavor to keep up with "general" track records of regional centers. It should be noted that USCIS does not release or keep track of detailed statistics regarding EB-5 Program.

Note that we will abstain from posting such specific statements as "we heard so and so regional center had so and so issues, etc.", for two reasons: 1) such information could be based on rumors or handed-down information and not be accurate; and 2) we could be sued. However, because there is no way we can keep up with developments and approvals or denials for all regional centers, we will update the info herein when we are provided with sufficient proof.

Statistics on approvals and denials for I-526 and I-829s during 2009 fiscal year

* Note fiscal year 2009 means from October 1, 2008 to September 30, 2009. Note also that approvals and denials may not be for the cases received in FY 2009. USCIS does not break down between regional center and non-regional center cases, but according to USCIS and general consensus, over 80% of all EB-5 cases filed are regional center EB-5 cases.

I-526s: 1028 cases received: 966 approvals and 163 denials. 85% approval rate.

I-829s: 437 cases received: 335 approvals and 55 denials. 85% approval rate.

USCIS statistics for October 1 to May 2010 period are as follows:

I-526: 1,100 cases filed, and 955 approved and 113 denied so far. This means there is around 12% chance for I-526 to be denied.

I-829s: 438 cases filed, and 188 approved and 33 denied so far. This means there is around 18% chance for I-829 to get denied by USCIS even after getting I-526 approved.

* Note that although I-526 approvals are important first step, we are not impressed with I-526 immigrant petition approvals but with I-829 conditions removal approvals.