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If you’re in a position to make a substantial investment in a United States business and expect to create jobs through that company, you may in an ideal position to earn conditional approval for residency in the country. An investment green card is an ideal way to get your foot in the door and pave the way for you and your family to become U.S. citizens if that’s your goal. An experienced immigration attorney gives you the best chance of approval for an investor green card. Call Kats Immigration Law to set up a virtual consultation or an in-person meeting.
The investment-based green card program was created in 1990 as way for foreign investors to get green cards by making a financial contribution to the United States economy. This program doesn’t provide immigration waivers, which means it’s a requirement in this program for all the participants to meet the investment criteria as well as job creation criteria completely. There’s an annual quota for getting a U.S. green card by investment; in 2024, it was about 10,000.
Through this program, you receive permanent residency in the U.S. by investing at least $1.8 million in a commercial enterprise, preferably a new business. The investment should create 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. Successful applicants get conditional permanent residency, which later may be converted to permanent residency status. The most common investment-based green cards include:
Because of the various options for investing in new American businesses and the nuances involved with each, you should rely on an experienced immigration investment green card attorney. Alina Kats at Kats Immigration Law in Brooklyn and Manhattan specializes in getting a green card for investors and other immigration matters, such as applying for citizenship asylum, non-immigrant visas and deportation and removal proceedings.
To secure a green card through investment, you first must invest in a new business in the U.S. and either directly or indirectly generate at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. It’s initially granted for two years. Investment-based visa programs come with requirements that need to be followed strictly, including:
The process can take years as it involves several steps. The initial application form takes from 18 to 24 months to get processed and costs close to $6,000, though fees are always subject to change. The annual cap for this category makes it an attractive option for you compared to the overcrowded H-1B visa.
I had I great pleasure to work with Alina on my immigration case and would absolutely without any doubt, recommend her. She is that kind of Lawer that won't let you work alone, she will be always by your side, every single step you do. I feel very fortunate for having found her.
Lev IoffeI have had the best experience with this lawyer. Alina Kats took my case. She displayed exceptional service never failed. She answered every question even if she already answered it before. She helped me every step of the way. Good value, good quality, great person, exellent lawyer.
Michael GWe are pleased with the work of this office. A friendly team of professionals know and love their job. They can answer your questions easily and clearly and help you make the right decision.
Valeriy PTo apply for an investor green card, you must first select a business project in the U.S. that qualifies and then work with your New York-based attorney to decide which investment option is best for you and your situation. The next steps then include:
Hiring a professional immigration attorney for your investor green card process makes an enormous difference on the journey. Your attorney guides you through the requirements and eligibility criteria of the category, so nothing is missed. Your attorney may assist you in other ways as well, such as:
This process of getting a green card for investors introduces investors to several benefits. It allows investors to choose where you want to invest. If approved, you can bring your children under 21 and spouses to gain conditional residency, which may lead to permanent residency. This opportunity gives you a chance for an excellent education and medical care for you and your family. On the other hand, your investment also generates many financial returns and business opportunities in the U.S.
If your visa application is denied for any reason, your attorney helps you understand the reasons, which may be as simple as a missed deadline or an error on your paperwork. Some common reasons for rejection include:
You avoid most of the simple errors when you rely on an experienced immigration attorney to handle your documentation from the beginning of the process. And if your visa application is rejected, your lawyer guides you through the immigration appeals process or reapplication. Contact Kats Immigration Law for a virtual consultation with Alina Kats to understand the benefits of green cards for investors.