Foreign investors interested in immigrating to Illinois may be curious about the best visa or green card route to help them achieve their goals. There are reasons to pursue either an E-2 work visa or an EB-5 green card depending on each person's specific circumstances. In order to be eligible for the E-2 visa, people must be citizens of a national treaty country and must have substantial funds, typically around $150,000. In addition, they must have at least 50% of the business in question, and it cannot be simply a passive investment business. This also means that at least some level of English language knowledge is necessary for eligibility.
Options for foreign investors seeking U.S. immigration
Options for getting legal status in the U.S.
Illinois residents who are interested in helping foreign-born family members get legal status in the United States may be interested in learning about some of the options that are available. In most cases, the individual applying has to be in the country legally. However, some exceptions exist, especially when undue hardship is placed on the individual or family members.
Green cards and denial of earlier marriage petitions
A person in Illinois who attempts to obtain a green card after marriage could face a denial if the person was earlier determined to have entered into a fraudulent marriage in an effort to get a green card. This is covered under INA Section 204(c). It says that for anyone who has engaged in marriage fraud, approval of an immigrant visa petition is prohibited.
