Green cards extend permanent residency to immigrants. Immigrants who qualify for green cards only have to renew their immigration paperwork once every 10 years instead of every few years when their visas expire. They have expanded legal protections when compared with visa holders. They also have more opportunities to help their family members legally enter the country.
Most people become eligible for green cards through extended residency in the United States. Professionals who secure employment visas and who have remained in the country for years can apply for a green card to become permanent residents. Those intending to invest as a means of securing immigration opportunities are eligible for EB-5 visas.
Immigrants are also eligible for green cards if their investment meets certain standards. However, unlike traditional green cards, the green cards provided to immigrant investors are conditional green cards. What separates a conditional green card from a traditional one?
Conditional green cards expire quickly
As previously mentioned, standard green cards expire every 10 years. A conditional green card lasts for a shorter time. In scenarios where the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues a green card based on temporary qualifications, the green card lasts for a shorter time.
EB-5 investors typically receive a conditional green card that is only valid for two years after they enter the United States. They must petition the USCIS to remove their conditional status within the 90 days before their green card expires.
Provided that they have maintained their investments and continue to provide a minimum of 10 full-time employment opportunities through their business investment, they may be eligible for a standard green card. After removing the conditional status on their green card, the investor can remain in the country, even if the business eventually fails.
Foreign nationals with the capital to invest in or start a domestic company can potentially acquire green cards more quickly than others seeking work-based immigration. However, they have to address the limitation of a conditional green card to continue their residence in the United States beyond their first two years in the country.
Understanding the rules that apply to work-based immigration opportunities, including EB-5 investment visas, can help professionals evaluate their options.