Mark I. Davies, Esq., J.D., University of Pennsylvania Law School, licensed by the SRA (SRA ID: 384468) in the UK, and a member of The Law Society of England & Wales, MBA, Wharton School of Business. Top 10 Investment Visa Lawyer. Licensed in the USA. Georgia State Bar member. AILA member.
Table of Contents
- ► Who This Page Is For
- ► Our EB-5 Process for UK Clients
- ► Case Study: Enfield (London) Automotive Supplier E-2 to EB-5
- ► How EB5 Legal Support Works from the UK
- ► Source of Funds for UK EB5 Applicants
- ► Immigrant Visa Processing for UK Applicants
- ► EB5 Case Study
- ► Choosing the Right EB5 Lawyer
- ► FAQs
Speak with EB5 lawyers in the UK and London. Our US and UK qualified legal team advises on source of funds, cross-border taxation issues, project due diligence, direct EB5, HMRC records, E2 to EB5 transitions, and cross-border EB5 strategy. At each step our London team work with our US-based lawyers, our international taxation team and specialst EB-5 filing team in Los Angeles.
Our London-based lawyers support UK investors through every stage of the EB5 process. We work as a unified team with our US-based immigration lawyers and our EB-5 filing team based in Los Angeles to structure applications correctly, document source of funds, and manage filings with USCIS.
We are experienced with both Regional Center and Direct EB-5.
📖 Read Our Guide to The EB-5 Investor Visa
If you are looking to speak with an EB5 lawyer in London or explore your options with experienced EB5 lawyers in the UK, we provide clear, cross-border guidance tailored to your circumstances.
Who This Page Is For
This page is designed for UK-based individuals who:
- Are considering investing $800,000 or $1,050,000 in the US
- Want to obtain a US green card by making a qualifying investment in a business in the United States
- Need guidance on structuring funds from UK assets
- Are looking to work with an EB5 lawyer in London or Edinburgh or trusted EB5 lawyers in the UK
📜 EB-5 Lawyer Guide
Read our comprehensive guide to choosing an EB-5 lawyer →
How EB5 Legal Support Works in the UK
Applying for an EB5 visa from the UK involves coordination between you, your financial documentation, frequently your accountant and UK Solicitor and US immigration counsel.
From a UK perspective, the process typically includes:
- Our London EB5 Solicitors who are licensed by the SRA to draft supporting documentation required under UK law. Examples of required UK documentation may include loan agreements or shareholder distribution agreements
- Reviewing your eligibility and the investment structure
- Analyzing the origin of your funds under US immigration rules
- Preparing documentation that meets USCIS standards
- Coordinating filings with our US-based immigration lawyers and our filing team based in Los Angeles
- Supporting you through each stage of the process
Most UK-based applicants work with a law firm with an EB5 lawyer in London or remotely with EB5 lawyers in the UK. Presence in the US important as all EB-5 cases are filed with USCIS in the U.S.
What EB5 Lawyers in the U.K. Do
EB5 immigration lawyers play a central role in ensuring your application is correctly prepared and compliant.
Legal Support Provided
For UK investors, this typically involves:
- Structuring and documenting source of funds from UK income, property, or investments
- Some of the documents required for source of funds from the UK may require an opinion or drafting from a U.K. solicitor
- Preparing and filing the I-526E petition
- Preparing corporate documentation and business plans to support
- Advising on regional center investments or direct EB5 structures
- Managing communication with USCIS
- Supporting later-stage filings such as removal of conditions
Working with experienced EB5 lawyers in the UK ensures that UK-specific financial documentation is properly aligned with US immigration requirements.
Source of Funds for UK EB5 Applicants
One of the most important aspects of any EB5 application is demonstrating the lawful origin of your investment capital.
Common UK Source of Funds
For UK-based applicants, this often involves:
- Property sales or equity release
- Dividends from UK companies
- Salary and accumulated savings
- Business ownership or exits
- Gifts or inheritance
Each source must be clearly documented and traceable in a way that meets US immigration standards.
An experienced EB5 lawyer in London will ensure UK financial evidence is presented clearly within a US legal framework.
Working with an EB5 Lawyer in London
Many UK investors begin their EB5 process while based in London.
How Legal Support Is Structured
Working with an EB5 lawyer in London or coordinating with EB5 lawyers in the UK typically involves:
- Initial consultations remotely or in London
- Ongoing document preparation handled digitally
- Coordination with US counsel across time zones
- Regular updates throughout the application process
In most cases, there is no need to relocate to the US during the early stages.
Our EB-5 Process for UK Clients (Regional Center)
| Stage | Description | Responsible Party | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Initial Source of Funds Summary | The client provides a short written overview of how funds were accumulated. | Client | 1–3 days |
| 2. Bespoke Source of Funds Checklist | Our London SOF team prepares a tailored document request based on the client's financial profile. | D&A London SOF Team | 2–4 days |
| 3. Project Review and Structuring | Our London project review and structured finance lawyers advise on project selection and investment structure. | D&A London Project Review Team | 1–2 weeks |
| 4. Source of Funds Clearance | Full review and clearance of the source of funds before the investment proceeds. | D&A London SOF Team | 2–6 weeks |
| 5. Project Selection and Investment | The client proceeds with the selected EB-5 regional center investment. | Client, supported by D&A London EB-5 Team | 1–2 weeks |
| 6. I-526E Petition Preparation | Preparation of the EB-5 petition and supporting documentation. | D&A London EB-5 Team | 2–4 weeks |
| 7. Quality Control Review | The petition is reviewed across our New York and Singapore teams, allowing continuous 24-hour progress. | D&A QC Team (New York & Singapore) | 3–7 days |
| 8. Final Review and Signing | The client reviews and signs the I-526E petition and Form G-28. | Client, coordinated by D&A London | 1–3 days |
| 9. Filing Preparation | Petition is printed, collated, and finalised for submission. | D&A Filing Team, Los Angeles | 2–3 days |
| 10. USCIS Filing and Intake | Petition is filed with USCIS. Our systems monitor incoming correspondence. | D&A Filing Team (LA) & New York Intake | Filing: 1 day | Receipt: 2–4 weeks |
| 11. Ongoing Project Monitoring | Continuous monitoring of the EB-5 investment project. | D&A US Project Review Team | Ongoing |
| 12. I-526E Approval & NVC Transfer | Approval notice is received and the case is transferred to the National Visa Center. | USCIS & D&A New York | Transfer: 2–6 weeks |
| 13. Immigrant Visa Fee Payment | The client pays the immigrant visa fee following NVC instructions. | Client, coordinated by D&A London | 1–2 weeks |
| 14. ACRO Certificate & Civil Documents | The client provides required documents including ACRO Police Certificate and civil records. | Client, coordinated by D&A London | 1–4 weeks |
| 15. DS-260 Immigrant Visa Application | Completion and submission of the DS-260 application. | Client, coordinated by D&A London | 1–2 weeks |
| 16. Interview & Medical Examination | The client attends the US Embassy interview in London and completes the medical exam. | US Embassy, Client, D&A London | Dependent on scheduling |
| 17. Post-Interview Debrief | Detailed debrief to address any issues arising from the interview. | D&A London EB-5 Team | Within 24–48 hours |
| 18. Immigrant Visa Issued | The client receives their immigrant visa. | US Embassy & Client | 1–2 weeks |
After You Receive Your EB-5 Visa
| Stage | Description | Responsible Party | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19. Entry to the United States | The client enters the US within 6 months and becomes a Conditional Permanent Resident. | Client, supported by D&A London | Within 6 months |
| 20. US Onboarding & Advisory | Meeting with our US team to review tax, residency, and compliance requirements. | D&A US Legal & Advisory Team | Shortly after arrival |
| 21. Continued Project Monitoring | Ongoing monitoring of the EB-5 investment. | D&A US Project Review Team | Ongoing |
| 22. Tax & Residency Support | Assistance with US tax filings and residency matters. | D&A US Tax & Advisory Team | Ongoing |
| 23. I-829 Petition (Removal of Conditions) | Filing of the I-829 petition approximately two years after entry. | D&A London EB-5 Team with US support | ~2 years after entry |
| 24. I-829 Approval | Client receives unconditional permanent residency. | USCIS, represented by D&A EB-5 Team | Typically 2–4+ years |
Enfield (London) Automotive Supplier from E-2 to EB-5
Case Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Client | Enfield, London-based specialist automotive parts supplier |
| UK Business | Supplier to Aston Martin and other specialist British vehicle manufacturers |
| Initial U.S. Expansion | Distribution facility opened in North Carolina under the E-2 visa route |
| Why North Carolina | To serve specialist British automotive retailers in the US and benefit from the state's automotive manufacturing base |
| Further Expansion | US manufacturing facility opened in 2024 |
| EB-5 Applicant | Owner's son, already in the United States in E-2 status |
| Total Investment in EB-5 | USD 2,893,476 |
| U.S. Jobs by End of 2024 | 15 employees |
| Outcome | Successful E-2 to EB-5 green card filing based on business expansion, qualifying investment, and job creation |
Background
This case involved an Enfield, London-based client in the specialist automotive sector. Their UK business supplies parts to Aston Martin and other niche British vehicle manufacturers.
We had originally helped the business expand into the United States under the E-2 visa route. To serve demand from specialist British automotive retailers in the US, the client opened a distribution operation in North Carolina, which made commercial sense given the state's established automotive manufacturing presence.
From an E-2 point of view, this was a relatively straightforward case. The value of the stock being transferred, together with the broader operational setup, meant that the investment requirement was comfortably met and the US business was able to begin trading as a distribution centre.
Expansion into Manufacturing
The position changed in 2024, when the business grew again and opened a manufacturing facility in the United States. By the end of the year, the US operation employed 15 people. At that point, we advised on the next stage: an EB-5 green card application for the owner's son, who was already in the US in E-2 status.
What made the case particularly interesting was that the investment was not a simple cash-only injection. The EB-5 case had to reflect the real commercial development of the business, including transferred stock, cash used to establish the plant and office, payroll support, and the value of a licence acquired by the UK parent and assigned to the US company.
Our Role
EB-5 Lawyers in London
Our EB-5 lawyers in London worked closely with the client and members of the team to make sure the business was properly documented for EB-5 purposes. That meant not just showing the amount invested, but presenting the story of how the US business had developed, how the investment had been deployed, and how the company's growth supported the application.
US Corporate Lawyers in Atlanta
At the same time, our Atlanta-based US corporate and commercial lawyers helped the client build out the legal framework for the American operation. That included assisting with the licences the business needed, preparing employment agreements, negotiating commercial contracts, and making sure the underlying documentation was in place both for the running of the business and for the EB-5 filing itself.
Investment Included in the EB-5 Case
In a case like this, the real issue is often not whether enough money has been invested. It is whether an active, growing business can be documented in a way that clearly satisfies EB-5 requirements. That is where careful legal coordination matters.
Total Investment Included in EB-5
| Investment Component | Amount (USD) |
|---|---|
| Auto parts transferred from UK parent | 1,789,876 |
| Cash invested in opening manufacturing facility and office | 579,600 |
| Cash remitted to US entity to cover payroll | 274,000 |
| Assignment of licence acquired by UK parent and assigned to US entity | 250,000 |
| Total Investment | 2,893,476 |
Job Creation in the United States
US Employment Structure at the End of 2024
| Role | Number |
|---|---|
| Shift Supervisors | 2 |
| Plant Engineer | 1 |
| Machinery Operators | 5 |
| Sales Manager | 1 |
| Sales Staff | 3 |
| Accountant / Bookkeeper | 1 |
| Receptionist | 1 |
| Executive Assistant to CEO | 1 |
| Total Employees | 15 |
Outcome
This was a successful E-2 to EB-5 filing based on the expansion of an existing US business, a substantial qualifying investment, and the jobs created through that growth.
We regularly advise UK-based clients on EB-5 matters, especially where an existing E-2 business has grown into something much larger and the owners or family members need a permanent residence solution rather than a temporary visa.
Further Reading
For a fuller explanation of the EB-5 process, including investment rules, timelines, and job creation requirements, see our guide to the EB-5 visa for UK investors.
Immigrant Visa Processing for UK Applicants (London Embassy)
All US immigrant visa applications for individuals based in the United Kingdom are processed through the U.S. Embassy in London.
Centralised Processing in London
This applies regardless of where you live in the UK. Even though there are U.S. consulates in cities such as Edinburgh and Belfast, immigrant visa services are centralised in London.
What This Means in Practice
For EB5 applicants:
- Your petition is approved by USCIS
- Your case moves to the National Visa Center
- Your interview is scheduled in London
You cannot attend an immigrant visa interview elsewhere in the UK.
The London Interview Process
Medical Examination (London Only)
You must attend a medical examination with an embassy-approved clinic in London. This cannot be completed elsewhere in the UK.
Document Preparation
Applicants must attend with complete and properly organised documentation. Missing documents can result in delays or administrative processing.
In-Person Embassy Interview
Your interview takes place at the U.S. Embassy in London. You must attend in person and bring all original documentation.
Practical Considerations
Because all processing is centralised in London:
- Travel planning is required
- Timing between medical and interview must be managed
- Documentation must be fully prepared
This is where working with an experienced EB5 lawyer in London becomes particularly important.
EB5 Case Study: From Truro to Bryn Mawr
This case study shows how a client working with an EB5 lawyer in London successfully expanded a UK business into the United States and achieved EB5 approval.
Case Overview
A UK-based entrepreneur worked with EB5 lawyers in the UK to expand a recruitment business from Truro to Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, transitioning from an E2 visa to a successful EB5 direct investment supporting over 100 employees.
E2 to EB5 Strategy
The business began as an E2 operation with:
- Two recruiter stations
- Initial office presence in Pennsylvania
- Early client placements
A key factor was that the original business plan was designed to support a future EB5 filing, documenting projected growth from a small operation to a large-scale employer.
Business Growth
The company expanded significantly:
- Over 100 employees placed on assignment
- Strong US client base
- Increased operational scale
However, for EB5 purposes, the focus was on building:
- In-house recruiters
- Sales staff
- Managers
EB5 Structuring and Timing
We advised the client to delay filing until:
- 8 in-house employees were established
- A plan for at least 2 additional hires was in place
This ensured compliance with EB5 job creation requirements.
Outcome
- EB5 petition approved in late 2025
- Work permit and travel permission granted
- Business continued scaling without E2 limitations
Choosing the Right EB5 Lawyer in London
Not all immigration lawyers have experience with EB5 cases.
What to Look For
When selecting between EB5 lawyers in the UK, consider:
- Experience with EB5 investor applications
- Familiarity with UK financial documentation
- Clear communication and structured process
- Transparency on timelines
- Coordination with US counsel
📖 Read Our Guide to The EB-5 Investor Visa
How We Support UK-Based EB5 Clients
We act as your first point of contact in the UK.
Our Role
Whether you are seeking an EB5 lawyer in London or broader support from EB5 lawyers in the UK, we:
- Assess your eligibility
- Advise on investment structure
- Coordinate with US immigration lawyers
- Support you throughout the process
Speak to an EB5 Lawyer in London
If you are considering the EB5 visa, early legal guidance is critical. Whether you are looking for an EB5 lawyer in London or experienced EB5 lawyers in the UK, we can help you structure your application correctly from the outset.
FAQs About EB5 Lawyers in London and the UK
Do I need an EB5 lawyer to apply for the EB5 visa?
Yes. Working with an experienced EB5 lawyer or EB5 immigration attorney is strongly recommended. The EB5 process involves complex requirements around source of funds, business structure, and job creation. An experienced lawyer helps ensure your application is properly prepared and reduces the risk of delays or refusal.
Can I work with an EB5 visa lawyer in London for a US immigration case?
Yes. Many applicants work with an EB5 visa lawyer in London alongside US-based immigration counsel. Your London-based advisor typically supports preparation, documentation, and strategy, while a US EB5 immigration attorney handles the formal filing with USCIS.
What does an EB5 immigration attorney do?
An EB5 immigration attorney manages the legal aspects of your application, including:
- Preparing and filing the I-526E petition
- Reviewing source of funds
- Ensuring compliance with USCIS requirements
- Managing communication with immigration authorities
An EB5 immigration attorney in London may also help coordinate UK documentation with US legal requirements.
How do I choose the best EB5 lawyer in London?
The best EB5 lawyer in London will have:
- Experience with EB5 investor cases
- Familiarity with UK-based clients
- Clear communication and structured processes
- Strong coordination with US immigration attorneys
Experience with cases similar to yours is more important than general rankings.
Are there EB5 lawyers in the UK who specialise in US immigration?
Yes. There are EB5 lawyers in the UK who specialise in US immigration and work closely with US-qualified attorneys. They typically focus on UK-side preparation, financial documentation, and coordinating the overall application strategy.
What is the difference between an EB5 lawyer and an EB5 immigration attorney?
The terms are often used interchangeably. A US EB5 immigration attorney is licensed in the United States and files petitions with USCIS. An EB5 lawyer in London or in the UK typically supports preparation, structuring, and documentation. Most applicants work with both.
Do direct EB5 and regional center EB5 cases require different legal experience?
Yes. Direct EB5 and regional center EB5 cases involve different legal and strategic considerations. Regional center cases are based on pre-structured investments, while direct EB5 cases involve operating a business and creating jobs directly.
Why is direct EB5 more specialised?
A direct EB5 case requires more involvement in business structure and hiring. An experienced EB5 lawyer in London or EB5 immigration attorney should understand:
- direct job creation requirements
- Business plan alignment
- Operational growth and compliance
Should I choose an EB5 lawyer based on the type of case?
Yes. You should work with an EB5 lawyer UK team or EB5 immigration attorney who has experience with your specific type of case. The top EB5 lawyers in the UK often specialize in either direct EB5 or regional-center cases, and choosing the right experience can make a significant difference.
Can an EB5 lawyer in London help with source of funds?
Yes. This is a key role of an EB5 lawyer in London. They help structure and document UK-based funds, including property, dividends, or business income, so they meet USCIS requirements.
About the Authors
Mark I. Davies, Esq.
Chairman of Davies & Associates; focused on E visa strategy and complex consular filings.
Our London Office
Davies & Associates
Dashwood House, 69 Old Broad Street
London EC2M 1QS, United Kingdom
About the Authors
Mark I. Davies, Esq.
Chairman of Davies & Associates; focused on E visa strategy and complex consular filings.
Mark I. Davies, Esq., J.D., University of Pennsylvania Law School, licensed by the SRA (SRA ID: 384468) in the UK, and a member of The Law Society of England & Wales, MBA, Wharton School of Business. Top 10 Investment Visa Lawyer. Licensed in the USA. Georgia State Bar member. AILA member.
Contact Davies & Associates Offices in United Kingdom
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Looking to acquire an EB-5 Visa?
We are known for our creative solutions that obtain "impossible" visas. We solve the most complex immigration problems for businesses, investors, individuals, and families.
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