H-1B Visa Holders: Consider EB-5 Now If You’re Relying on Home Equity

For H-1B visa holders exploring the EB-5 path to a green card, having a clear funding strategy is essential, especially if you're considering a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC). While the lending environment has shifted and access to home equity has become more limited, HELOCs remain one of the most effective and lawful ways to fund your EB-5 investment.

In fact, around 80% of our clients continue to use HELOCs as their primary funding method. Why? Because U.S. housing values have risen significantly in recent years -especially during and post-pandemic—creating a unique opportunity for many homeowners to tap into substantial equity.

HELOC Approval Rates Are Dropping

According to the New York Fed, 40% of home-equity credit applications were denied - the highest rejection rate since 2014. Even borrowers with strong financials are seeing pushback due to:

• Higher interest rates

• Stricter lending standards

• Pandemic-era income disruptions

• A slowdown in overall consumer credit

• Broader economic uncertainty

Nearly 4.6 million homeowners with mortgages are now seeing reduced access to approximately $730 billion in equity.

What This Means for EB-5 Investors

The $800,000 EB-5 investment requirement often leads H-1B holders to consider leveraging home equity, and for many, it still makes a lot of sense. But it’s important to act sooner rather than later.

Even if you qualified for a mortgage just a few years ago, today’s lending climate is different. Changes in credit scores, job status, or overall market conditions could impact your ability to get approved for a HELOC now.

Why Timing Matters

• HELOC approvals aren’t guaranteed, delays or denials could slow down your EB-5 process.

• The EB-5 timeline is long: you’ll need time to choose a project, transfer funds, and file your I-526.

• The economy is shifting and lenders may keep tightening credit access.

Bottom Line

Even in a more complex market, a HELOC remains a smart, lawful solution for many EB-5 investors—especially those who’ve built up strong equity in their homes. But timing is everything. If a HELOC is part of your plan, now is the time to act. 

Contact us today if you would like to discuss your options with our team of experts.