Can dependent children enroll as in-state residents for tuition purposes?

Not automatically. Under EB-5, the immigration status obtained by the parents extends to dependent children, but qualifying as an in-state resident for university tuition purposes is a separate matter decided by each state and institution.

Eligibility for in-state tuition does not depend solely on holding a green card. States typically evaluate their own criteria, such as:

• Length of actual domicile in the state.
• Proof of residency and local ties.
• Intent to remain in the state on a stable basis.

In other words, a newly arrived student may need to fulfill a domicile period before qualifying, even if they already hold permanent resident status. Rules vary considerably from state to state and from one university to another.

Because this topic crosses immigration and local education policy, it is worth confirming the rules directly with the intended institution and state and, when helpful, seeking specialized guidance. This helps avoid misinformation and allows for better planning of the academic transition in the United States.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.