SBA 7(a) Q&A
Short answer
Yes, gift funds from a non-U.S. citizen parent can be used for your equity injection, provided they meet all SBA gift requirements. The source and transfer of funds must be fully documented and verifiable.
The SBA does not restrict the citizenship or residency of a gift donor, as long as the gift is genuine, unconditional, and properly documented. The lender must be able to verify the source of the funds and the transfer, which can sometimes be more challenging with international transactions.
If your parent residing in another country gifts you $80,000, you would need a gift letter, their foreign bank statements showing the funds, and bank records confirming the international wire transfer into your U.S. bank account.
13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans
Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
Policy Notice 5000-876441 - Citizenship and Residency Requirements
Last checked 2026-06-14. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 · SBA sources checked through 2026-06-14. 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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