Employment-based green cards categories are an essential part of the United States immigration system, providing a path for foreign nationals to gain permanent residency and begin their career in the U.S. Green card sponsorship by employer grants visas to individuals from abroad demonstrating that they have specialized skills and knowledge that can benefit the U.S. economy.
But, applying to the United States for an employment-based visa can seem daunting. Even with the best preparation, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the process. The various forms and documents that need to be filed, along with the knowledge of immigration law and policy, all combine to create a sense of anxiety and confusion.
This blog will give you an insight into employee-based visas and how there are job opportunities for green card holders. Let`s get started!
Understanding an Employee-Based Visa
An employment-based green card allows a foreign national to permanently live and work in the United States. This type of visa provides many benefits, including freedom from having to renew visas every few years, access to certain government benefits, and the right to travel freely inside and outside of the U.S. Let`s look at the categories for these types of visas.
EB-1 Green Card Category
The EB-1 Green Card category is a classification of employment-based permanent residence visas. It is reserved for individuals who possess extraordinary abilities in their field, outstanding professors and researchers, and multinational executives or managers.
EB-2 and EB-3 Green Card Categories
The EB-2 and EB-3 Green Card Categories are two distinct categories for employment-based immigration. The EB-2 category is for individuals with an advanced degree or its equivalent or a foreign national with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business. The EB-3 category is for individuals with bachelor’s degrees, skilled workers with at least two years of experience, and unskilled workers.
EB-4 Green Card Category
The EB-4 green card category is an immigrant visa program created by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for special immigrants who have served or are currently serving in specific categories, such as religious workers, foreign medical graduates, employees of international organizations, and Afghan and Iraqi translators. To apply for an EB-4 green card, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements, including a job offer from a qualifying U.S. employer, proof of any specialized qualifications or experience required for the position, and in some cases, an affidavit of support.
What is the Next Step?
The application process for obtaining an employment-based green card falls into two general categories: filing of the I-140 petition and adjustment of status or consular processing.
Filing an I-140 Petition: The first step in obtaining a green card is to file a Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: After USCIS approves the I-140 petition, the employee can either apply for an adjustment of status or consular processing. Adjustment of status is a process that allows the visa holder to remain in the U.S. while their green card application is being processed.
Immigration Lawyers Ready To Support You
Navigating employee-based visas can seem confusing. But with the appropriate legal counsel, you can have peace of mind. The Presti Law Firm is a team of qualified immigration lawyers dedicated to helping individuals and businesses with their visa and citizenship needs. Our team is well-versed in the employment-based immigration to the U.S. process.
Our experienced attorneys have decades of combined experience in all areas of U.S. immigration law, including family-sponsored visas, employment-based permanent residence, naturalization/citizenship, asylum applications, and more. We understand how this process might give you a sense of anxiety, but you shouldn`t have to go through the process without legal advice. We offer knowledgeable services that are easy to understand.
Contact our offices today and get the representation you deserve.