First read the current official terms and assess permanent-residence eligibility, admissibility and visa availability; then submit the application and nonrefundable processing fee. Complete Form I-140G and vetting, and make the gift only when officially instructed after successful vetting. Re-verify the official terms immediately before each payment and compare the result with family sponsorship or extended visits.
Decide in the order that protects the savings
The sequencing mistake is to wire the gift before the government asks for it. Hypothetical example: a retired Lake Country couple first compare permanent residence with family sponsorship or visits, then review the current official Gold Card terms and decide who will be the principal and which spouse will be included. If they proceed, they submit the application and non-refundable DHS processing fees through the official site, respond to USCIS instructions for Form I-140G and vetting, and send the gift only after successful vetting and an official payment instruction.
Lawful-permanent-residence eligibility, admissibility and visa availability still must be resolved, and tax and residence advice should precede a move. Re-verify the gift, fee, family and procedure terms immediately before each payment because the framework is recent and may change. No timeline should assume a date on which residence will be granted.