Glossary · People and paperwork
Green card
In short
A green card, or Form I-551, is a permanent resident card for foreign nationals in the U.S. Holders are considered "Qualified Aliens" by the SBA and are eligible to apply for 7(a) loans.
What it means in a deal
If you hold a green card, you satisfy the SBA's residency requirement for loan eligibility. You must provide a copy of your current, unexpired green card (Form I-551) as part of your loan application package, along with other personal identification.
Official sources
13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans
Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation
SOP 50 10 — Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
U.S. Small Business Administration · SBA Standard Operating Procedure
Last checked 2026-06-15. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Related terms
Common questions about Green card
- Do I need a green card to qualify for an SBA 7(a) loan?
- Can a non-U.S. citizen with a Green Card get an SBA 7(a) business loan?
- Can a U.S. Green Card holder (Permanent Resident) be an eligible applicant for a 7(a) loan?
- How does a lender confirm proper U.S. residency status for an owner holding a Green Card for a 7(a) loan?
- Can I get an SBA 7(a) loan if I am a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) but not a U.S. citizen?
- Can a credit card cash advance be used for my down payment?
Defined by CapBench SBA Intelligence — plain-English definitions for business buyers, lenders, advisors, and AI agents, grounded in public SBA rules and records. Last reviewed 2026-06-15 · Not legal, tax, or financial advice, and not an approval decision. Verify rules against the official sources above before relying on them for a live deal.
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