For foreign investors, there are 5 key pathways to obtain a green card and live permanently in the United States. At Beyond Global Partners, we provide A to Z consultancy services to guide you through each step of the process, ensuring a smooth transition and successful application. We will explain these options in this article.

1. Invest $1,050,000 to Get an EB-5 U.S. Green Card

An investor who can invest $1,050,000 into a U.S. business and create 10 jobs can qualify for a green card under the EB-5 direct investment program. This investment must be in a commercial enterprise and typically needs to remain there for about 5 to 7 years. Common EB-5 investments include franchises, hotels, restaurants, IT companies, and retail chain stores.

The source and path of funds need to be traceable and clean. Processing times vary by the investor’s birthplace. While Chinese, Indian, and Vietnamese investors may face delays, investors from other countries can expect processing in about 24 to 36 months or sooner.

A significant advantage is that investors already in the U.S. can apply for an adjustment of status, employment authorization, and a travel document simultaneously with the I-526 petition. This allows nonimmigrants to stay in the U.S. temporarily while waiting for their green cards. H1B visa holders and E-2 investors might find this route particularly beneficial.

2. Invest $800,000 in a Regional Center Project for an EB-5 Green Card

Instead of investing $1,050,000 directly into their own company, investors can choose to invest $800,000 into an EB-5 regional center project and become passive investors. The required 10 new jobs can be created both directly and indirectly through the regional center project. This option is slightly cheaper but ties up the investor’s money in someone else’s project for 5 to 7 years.

Investments in infrastructure, rural, or high unemployment areas may be eligible for priority processing, speeding up green card approval. Similar to the direct investment option, investors in the U.S. can apply for an adjustment of status, employment authorization, and a travel document with their I-526 petition. This pathway is also attractive for H1B visa holders and E-2 investors.

3. EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) Program

If an investor is proficient in English, holds a master’s degree (or at least a bachelor’s degree with five years of progressive experience), and can undertake a project deemed in the national interest of the U.S., they may qualify for an EB-2 green card. This pathway waives the usual labor certification requirement, which shows there are no available U.S. workers for the job.

Investors can file for adjustment of status, employment authorization, and a travel document simultaneously with the I-140 petition if they are already in the U.S. This allows them to stay temporarily until they receive their green card. Our team at Beyond Global Partners can work with investors to prepare a compelling application that meets the USCIS’s national interest criteria.

4. Inter-Corporate Transferee EB-1C Green Card

Investors employed outside the U.S. for at least one year in the three years preceding the petition, or their most recent lawful nonimmigrant admission, may be eligible for an EB-1C green card. This visa is for managers or executives of multinational companies already working for a U.S. employer.

The U.S. petitioner must have been doing business for at least one year, have a qualifying relationship with the foreign entity, and intend to employ the investor in a managerial or executive capacity. Investors can remain in the U.S. on L-1 nonimmigrant work status until their green card application is approved. Beyond Global Partners offers extensive support to navigate the requirements and facilitate a successful application.

5. Family Sponsorship

If an investor has a close relative in the U.S. who is a citizen or green card holder, that relative can sponsor them for a green card. While the investor continues to work and manage their business, the relative’s sponsorship can pave the way for permanent residency.

If no family member has a green card, alternative routes include an E-2 investor’s spouse or child obtaining an advanced degree, gaining sponsorship from a U.S. employer, and securing a green card through PERM labor certification or National Interest Waiver. Once a family member has a green card, they can sponsor the investor.

Important Considerations When Converting to a Green Card

Securing a green card entails specific requirements, such as spending significant time in the U.S. To maintain green card status, one should establish and maintain a residence in the U.S. and return at least once every six months. It is crucial to demonstrate the intent to live in the U.S. permanently and assert this intention upon each entry.

Why Beyond Global Partners?

At Beyond Global Partners, we offer an all-encompassing suite of consultancy services designed specifically for high-net-worth individuals and families seeking U.S. residency through investment. Here’s how we can assist you:

  • Tailored Legal Expertise: Navigate the intricacies of U.S. immigration laws with the help of our seasoned legal professionals.
  • Customized Investment Solutions: Identify and evaluate the most suitable investment opportunities with our strategic guidance.
  • Seamless Documentation Preparation: Ensure your application is supported with all required documents, meticulously prepared and certified.
  • Streamlined Application Management: Experience a hassle-free application process managed by our efficient team, ensuring timely submission and approval.
  • Comprehensive Family Immigration Services: Include your eligible family members in the immigration process with our dedicated services.
  • Ongoing Support Post-Arrival: Receive continued assistance to help you settle in the U.S., ensuring compliance with all visa regulations and requirements.

Ready to begin your journey to U.S. residency? Partner with Beyond Global Partners for expert guidance and support at every stage. Let our skilled team help you achieve your American dream with ease and confidence. Contact us today!