On this page
- Quick summary
- Overview (What is Form I-924?)
- Context and workflow
- Eligibility Category Codes
- Failure prevention (What causes Form I-924 rejections?)
- What it asks for (What does Form I-924 ask for?)
- What you need (What do you need for Form I-924?)
- Checklist (What is the Form I-924 checklist?)
- Where to file
- Fees
- Form sections (What sections does Form I-924 have?)
- Strategy tips
- Mistake severity
- Examples (What are examples for Form I-924?)
- Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form I-924?)
- Edge cases and variations
- Scenarios
- Key differentiators
- Why it matters
- Next steps
- Verification
- Related guides
- Resources
Quick summary
#Check the form instructions for category-specific requirements, as described in the Form DS-160 guide, as described in the Form DS-260 guide.
This new job offer must be in the same or a similar occupational classification as the job offered to you in the Form I-140 that is the basis of your Form I-485. (For more information about how we determine which jobs are same or similar, please see USCIS Policy Manual [7 USCIS-PM E.5].
Include it with your application package and follow official instructions for submission.
Names, dates of birth, and passport details on other forms Program checklist requirements Supporting documents and translations
Overview (What is Form I-924?)
#Achieving designation as a regional center can yield significant economic advantages, such as job creation and enhanced capital investment, which align with the primary objectives of the EB-5 program. For further guidance, refer to the Application for Regional Center Designation page and the Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor page.
First page of I-924 form
Source: I-924 online portal
Context and workflow
#Processing time for I-924 varies by case type and current workload — always check the official USCIS processing time tool.
Why this matters
- Small mismatches inside I-924 (or between I-924 and supporting evidence) can force rework later in processing.
- This form acts as a cross-check point: details here must match other forms and supporting documents.
Where it fits in the workflow
- Initiating the process for regional center designation.
- Receipt Notice (a related form) issued upon submission.
- Potentially leads to further stages of the related forms process for investors.
- I-924 is commonly filed alongside Form I-956.
Who uses it
Form I-924 is intended for entities and applicants seeking designation as a regional center under the Immigrant Investor Program, managed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form is also used by applicants requesting an amendment to an approved regional center. The application process involves providing detailed information about the regional center's structure, management, and proposed economic impact, as well as evidence supporting the regional center's ability to promote economic growth, including job creation and increased domestic capital investment.
When it is used
- This new job offer must be in the same or a similar occupational classification as the job offered to you in the Form I-140 that is the basis of your Form I-485. (For more information about how we determine which jobs are same or similar, please see USCIS Policy Manual [7 USCIS-PM E.5].
- [object Object]
- [object Object]
- [object Object]
Eligibility Category Codes
#Eligibility information for this form. Confirm your category in the official instructions before filing.
This is a shortlist of common categories. The official instructions include many more.
| Code | Who applies |
|---|---|
| General | Check the form instructions for category-specific requirements. |
| Eligibility | Applicants seeking designation as a regional center under INA section 203(b)(5)(E). |
Failure prevention (What causes Form I-924 rejections?)
#Technical rejections
- Ensure form edition is current
Substantive weaknesses
- Insufficient evidence of economic impact.
- Lack of detailed job creation projections.
- To avoid incomplete or incorrect information: Double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions.
- To avoid filing i-924 when i-956 is required: USCIS no longer accepts I-924; use I-956 for regional center designation under EB-5 Reform Act.
- To avoid incomplete business plan or economic analysis: Regional center applications require extensive documentation per instructions.
What it asks for (What does Form I-924 ask for?)
#- Details about the regional center and its investment projects.
- Details of the investment projects associated with the regional center.
- Proposed economic impact and job creation plans
- Evidence of ability to promote economic growth
Sources for this section
What you need (What do you need for Form I-924?)
#- The current edition of I-924
- Valid government-issued identification
- Supporting documentation for your case
- Filing fee or fee waiver documentation
Sources for this section
Checklist (What is the Form I-924 checklist?)
#- Access the latest version of Form I-924 and its accompanying instructions directly from the official USCIS website.
- Review the official I-924 instructions before filing
- Gather required supporting documents per the instructions
- Complete all required sections of I-924
- Sign, date, and submit I-924 with all required supporting evidence
Sources for this section
Where to file
#Online filing is available for some categories — verify on the official form page. Otherwise, file by mail to the address in the instructions.
File online
Check the official I-924 page to see if online filing is available for your category.
Submit application
Paper filing addresses vary by eligibility category and state of residence. Check the official instructions for the correct filing address.
Filing locations and procedures may change. Always verify on the official USCIS website before submitting. For related guidance, see EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa.
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing FeeThe standard filing fee for form i-924. Check the current fee on the official USCIS fee schedule. | See official schedule |
Can the Form I-924 fee be waived?
Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility.
What happens if I submit the wrong fee?
USCIS will reject your application if the incorrect fee is submitted. Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing.
Fee waiver: Fee waivers may be available for qualifying applicants. See official instructions for eligibility. For related guidance, see Immigrant Petition by Standalone Investor.
Fees change; always verify on USCIS.
Form sections (What sections does Form I-924 have?)
#Personal Information
Applicant identification.
- Full name and A-Number if applicable
- Date of birth and nationality
- Current address and contact
Eligibility
Basis for the application.
- Category or classification claimed
- Supporting evidence type
- Dates establishing eligibility
Supporting Documents
Required attachments.
- Identity and status documents
- Category-specific evidence
- Fee payment or waiver request
Strategy tips
#Mistake severity
#| Mistake type | Severity | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Incomplete or incorrect information | Delay | Double-check all fields and include every required document per instructions. |
| Filing I-924 when I-956 is required | Rejection | USCIS no longer accepts I-924; use I-956 for regional center designation under EB-5 Reform Act. |
| Incomplete business plan or economic analysis | RFE | Regional center applications require extensive documentation per instructions. |
| Confusing I-924 with I-526 (investor form) | Rejection | I-924 is for regional centers; individual investors use I-526 or I-526E. |
Examples (What are examples for Form I-924?)
#- Strong application: An applicant submits the form with all required documents and receives a timely decision.
- Scenario: A software engineer submitted their petition with all supporting documents The case was approved within the standard timeline Prepare all evidence before filing to avoid delays
Common misconceptions (What misconceptions surround Form I-924?)
#- Filing this form does not guarantee approval of the underlying case
- Requirements may differ based on your specific situation
- Some applicants assume that submitting Form I-924 automatically leads to regional center designation; however, approval is not guaranteed and depends on meeting all program requirements.
Edge cases and variations
#- If you are asked to submit or update I-924, treat it as a package update: check every place the same details appear and keep them consistent.
Scenarios
#An applicant files the application with all required supporting documents and the correct fee.
Application accepted. Biometrics may be scheduled. Case proceeds to adjudication.
Follow the evidence checklist for your category. Missing documents trigger RFEs or denial.
An applicant files before the eligibility window (e.g., I-751 outside the 90 days before conditional residence expires).
Application rejected. Fee returned. Must refile when eligible.
Verify eligibility dates carefully. Filing too early is as problematic as filing late.
An applicant forgets to sign the form.
Application rejected. Must resubmit with signature. Unsigned forms are not accepted.
Sign and date the form. Review the signature block before mailing.
Key differentiators
#- Unlike Form I-526E: Immigrant Petition by Regional Center Investor: Next step after approval: Investors filed I-526E through approved regional center projects
- Unlike Form I-956: Application for Regional Center Designation: Filed together: I-956 replaced I-924 under EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022
- Unlike Form I-526: Immigrant Petition by Standalone Investor: Next step after approval: Investors filed I-526 through approved regional center projects (legacy)
Why it matters
#Evidence requirements vary based on the proposed economic impact.
Why it matters: Providing insufficient evidence can lead to denial of the application.
Concurrent filing with other applications may affect evidence requirements.
Why it matters: Understanding concurrent filing rules can streamline the application process.
The form can be used for both initial designation and amendments.
Why it matters: Understanding the dual purpose of the form ensures correct filing and processing.
Evidence requirements may vary based on the specific investment projects.
Why it matters: Providing tailored evidence can strengthen the application and support eligibility claims.
Next steps
#- Receive a Receipt Notice (a related form) confirming submission.
- USCIS reviews the application for completeness and accuracy.
- USCIS may request additional evidence if needed.
- Receive a decision on the designation request.
- If approved, begin managing investment projects under the regional center designation.
Verification
#This guide is based on official USCIS instructions for Form I-924 and is updated in response to changes in form editions or filing rules. Always confirm current requirements on the official USCIS website.
Resources
#FAQs
What other forms are typically filed together with Form I-924?
Review the official I-924 instructions for guidance specific to your immigration category and circumstances. The specific forms required vary by case type. Review the instructions for your particular immigration category to determine which forms must be submitted together.
Which visa categories commonly require Form I-924?
Review the official instructions for eligibility details. Review the official I-924 instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.
Do I need to file Form I-924 if I'm only updating my address or contact information?
Check the official instructions to see which form or process applies to your type of update. Review the official I-924 instructions for complete guidance specific to your immigration case and circumstances.
What type of evidence is needed to demonstrate economic impact?
Applicants must present comprehensive plans and projections that illustrate how the regional center intends to generate jobs and foster economic growth.
Is biographic information required for all applicants?
Biographic information is generally necessary when registering and undergoing fingerprinting as stipulated by section 262 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
How do I choose the correct eligibility category code on I-924?
Your eligibility category code dictates the basis for filing Form I-924. This form is intended for entities seeking designation as a regional center under INA section 203(b)(5)(E). It is crucial to review the instructions pertinent to your specific eligibility category before beginning the application process.
What supporting documents do I need for I-924?
Evidence of the regional center's ability to promote economic growth, including job creation and increased domestic capital investment. Evidence supporting the regional center's eligibility and compliance with program requirements. Evidence of the regional center's ability to promote economic growth.
Who is eligible to file I-924?
Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an alien who is ineligible for another employment-based nonimmigrant classification to work temporarily as a transitional worker. Review the instructions for your specific eligibility category before starting.
What happens after I submit I-924?
After submitting I-924, USCIS will issue a Confirmation of receipt confirming acceptance. You may then be scheduled for biometrics, an interview, or additional evidence requests depending on your case. You can monitor your case status online using the receipt number from your notice.
What are common reasons I-924 gets rejected?
Common reasons I-924 is rejected include missing or incorrect signatures, using an outdated form edition, incomplete required fields, incorrect fee payment, missing required supporting documents, and photographs that do not meet official specifications. Carefully review the instructions and checklist before submitting.
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Next steps
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. Use Find My Visa to get a personalized checklist with official sources and deadlines.
Find my visa