# Seven Things to Check Before Choosing an EB-5 Project

> A due-diligence checklist covering job-creation cushion, capital stack, developer track record, exit terms, regional center history, fund administration, and I-956F status.

- URL: https://eb5policy.com/projects/how-to-evaluate-a-project/
- Language: en
- Category: projects
- Published: 2026-10-10
- Tags: due diligence, regional centers, project selection

## 1. Job-creation cushion

Projected jobs should be **well above** the requirement (10 per investor). Be cautious below a 1.2x cushion.

## 2. Capital stack and EB-5 share

The smaller EB-5's share of total capital, the less completion depends on EB-5 fundraising. Check whether senior bank financing is already closed.

## 3. Developer and repayment source

Look at the developer's prior projects, any guarantees, and whether repayment comes from operating cash flow or refinancing.

## 4. Exit terms

Loan term, extension options, and whether exit is allowed before I-829. Post-RIA, capital must only be sustained for two years, but actual exit depends on the project documents.

## 5. Regional center record

Check USCIS's approved and terminated regional center lists, whether I-956G annual reports were filed, and any sanctions.

## 6. Third-party fund administration

The RIA requires a fund administrator or annual audits. Confirm who administers the funds and under what conditions they are released.

## 7. I-956F approval status

An approved I-956F means USCIS has accepted the business plan and job model, which materially speeds up each investor's I-526E.