For SBA lenders
Short answer
For a lawful permanent resident owner, the lender must obtain a copy of their valid Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551, commonly known as a "green card") and verify its authenticity.
Policy Notice 5000-876441 and SOP 50 10 require lenders to verify the legal status of all owners with 20% or more equity. For lawful permanent residents, the primary document is the Permanent Resident Card (green card). Lenders must visually inspect the card and retain a copy in the loan file.
An owner with 30% equity presents their green card. The lender makes a clear copy and verifies the expiration date and photo, ensuring it's valid and matches the applicant.
Policy Notice 5000-876441 - Citizenship and Residency Requirements
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
Procedural Notice 5000-876626 - Revised Applicant Ownership, Citizenship and Residency
Last checked 2026-06-13. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 · SBA sources checked through 2026-06-13. DealRoom analysis of public SBA 7(a) lending records (FY2020–present). Grounded in the current SBA rulebook; verify against the official sources above before relying on it for a live deal. Not legal, tax, or financial advice, and not an approval decision.
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