It shouldn't cost $12k to convert. you only need an FAA CPL + IR. The regionals will cover all the ATP costs, including accommodation and the CTP-ATP training that is now required before sitting the ATP theory exam. Regionals will also do the ATP checkride as part of the type rating.
Converting to CPL/IR is 'training as required'. Maybe several $k, but hardly $12k. Pick a small school at a small airfield with cheap rates and good availability. You may gave to do TSA insecurity bull**** (US citizens don't, foreigners do, but green card holders? No idea)
Last edited by Tinstaafl; 2nd Jun 2019 at 13:39.
Reason: Spilling erors.