Do you want to know how to get the Green Card? In this article, we will break down in detail the strategies for applying for permanent residency in the United States through investments and employment, based on the experiences and cases of some of our clients.
I am Jaime Sánchez, a franchise and business advisor in the United States, and I am dedicated to helping families and investors to establish themselves legally in this country. Join us as we explore the different options available and the complexities of each.
Applying for residency in the United States can be a complex and varied process, with different options to suit the needs and qualifications of each individual. It is important to understand that there is no one-size-fits-all solution and that each strategy requires a detailed and personalized analysis.
The five main ways to process a Green Card
In the United States, there are five main pathways to employment-based or investment-based residency, known as EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, and EB-5. Each of these pathways has specific requirements and involves different qualification processes.
EB-1 Visa:
This pathway is aimed at individuals with extraordinary skills or recognition in their field, as well as executives with relevant experience in related companies. Qualification criteria include awards, membership in prominent professional associations, relevant publications, and significant contributions in their field.
EB-2 NIW Visa:
Known as the National Interest Waiver, this option has recently gained popularity. It requires that the applicant’s profile be of national interest, with requirements similar to those of the EB-1. EB-2, while less common, can be a viable alternative for those who do not qualify for EB-1 but have a prominent profile.
EB-3 Visa:
This pathway involves a labor certification process and is commonly associated with employers who sponsor temporary work visas, such as H1-B or L-1. Labor certification can be a lengthy and complex process, but it is critical for those seeking residency through employment.
EB-4 Visa:
Although less relevant to most applicants, the EB-4 is intended for individuals with specific religious or governmental roles in the United States. We will not delve into this category, as it does not apply to most cases.
EB-5 Visa:
The EB-5 is an immigrant visa based solely on investment. Applicants must invest a specific amount of money and create employment in the United States. There are two main options to qualify: through a government-approved Regional Center or by investing in a business of your own. The minimum investment varies depending on the location of the business and can be $900,000 or $1.8 million dollars.
Common Strategies and Important Considerations
Strategic Use of Temporary Visas: Many individuals choose to apply for temporary visas, such as the E-2 or L-1, while they wait for approval of their permanent residence. This strategy allows them to legally reside and work in the United States while completing the immigration process.
Joint application with spouse: In some cases, the spouse of the principal applicant may apply as a visa holder, allowing for greater flexibility in immigration strategy. This option is especially useful when the spouse has skills or experience relevant to the residency application.
Selection of the business or investment project: It is crucial to carefully choose the business or investment project to meet the requirements of the selected visa and ensure the success of the process. Many choose to invest in franchises as they can be easier to approve and offer an established business model .
Get your Green Card in the United States
At Interlink FBC we recommend having the advice of lawyers specialized in immigration, since the residency processes can be complex and require experience.
Keep in mind that advance planning is essential, especially if you want your children to enter the school year in the United States. We suggest you start the process in the first months of the year to avoid setbacks and ensure a smooth transition.
In addition, residency processes can be expensive and require a significant investment of time and resources. It is important to carefully evaluate the costs associated with each option and ensure that you have the necessary financial resources to complete the process.
As you have seen, applying for a Green Card in the United States is a process that requires time, resources, and careful planning. Remember that each case is unique and it is essential to adapt the strategy to individual circumstances. If you have any questions or need additional advice, please do not hesitate to contact us.
