Citizens of other countries ("foreign nationals") who wish to permanently reside and work in the United States (immigrate) must become "lawful permanent residents" (i.e. get their "green card."). Foreign nationals may be eligible for lawful permanent resident status based upon their at-risk investment in a commercial enterprise.

Ten thousand foreign nationals are eligible each year for lawful permanent resident status based upon their investment in a commercial enterprise. Five of the ten thousand eligible include those foreign nationals who:

·       Establish a new commercial enterprise (includes creating an original business or remaking, expanding, or saving an existing business)

·       Invest in a new commercial enterprise (requires $1 million investment generally or $500,000 if investment is in an area with a high rate of unemployment)

·       Engage in a new commercial enterprise that benefits the U.S. economy and creates or saves jobs

The remaining five thousand eligible include those who invest in a "regional center," i.e. a new commercial enterprise that focuses on a specific geographic area and seeks to increase export sales, improve regional productivity, create new jobs, and increase domestic capital investment.

Lawful permanent resident status is granted conditionally. After two years, the investor can seek permanent status.

If you are interested in becoming a lawful permanent resident by virtue of an involvement or investment in a new commercial enterprise, please call, e-mail, or submit an online questionnaire. We can answer your questions, determine your eligibility, and guide you through the application process. There is no charge for your initial consultation. We will quote you a fee after learning the details of your case.

The foregoing information is for informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered a substitute for seeking legal advice from an attorney.

For more detailed information regarding investment-based immigration, you may also visit the official website for the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services at www.uscis.gov.