Yes, holding lawfully distributed funds is a normal sequencing choice, because the qualifying gift is transferred only when instructed after successful vetting. Keep records showing the funds remained the applicant's throughout. Nothing about declaring early accelerates vetting, and no processing time is guaranteed.
What the waiting period does and does not permit
Official descriptions of a matter of weeks are a description, not a promise; qualified estimates are still possible, universal ones are not. A pending case and a paid fee do not authorise work in the United States, although separately held, valid work authorisation may. Lawful permanent resident status generally authorises employment on admission. Confirm the likely EB-1 or EB-2 category and chargeability early, since visa availability affects the interview stage.
The processing fee comes first, vetting follows, and the gift is made after vetting rather than before it. Record what the company would do if vetting takes longer than hoped or if further instructions require documents that take months to obtain. After vetting, officials may request the programme’s US$1 million contribution, structured as a gift to the United States; this payment is not EB-5 capital.