Green Card through Employment: A Guide to Permanent Residency

Green Card through Employment: Your Path to Permanent Residency

Securing a permanent residency in a foreign country often involves obtaining an Employment-Based Green Card. This guide provides essential information on the application process and various employment categories.

What is a Green Card?

A Green Card, or permanent resident card, grants individuals sponsored by employers or family members the right to live and work in a foreign country permanently. It doesn't equate to citizenship but offers similar benefits.

Obtaining a Green Card

To apply, complete a green card application form and immigrant petition. In some cases, a US citizen or permanent resident must file a petition for you. The application process varies based on location, whether within or outside the United States.

1. Employer files the petition.
2. USCIS reviews and decides on the petition.
3. Approved applicants attend an appointment for photos, fingerprints, and signatures.
4. An interview follows.
5. A final decision is made based on the application.

Types of Employment-Based Green Cards

1. EB-1, Employment First Preference:

• Notable abilities in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.
• "Excellent" professors or researchers.
• Executives or managers.
• Requires thorough documentation and significant experience.

2. EB-2, Employment Second Preference:

• Professionals with advanced degrees.
• Remarkable ability in arts, sciences, or business.
• Requires labor certification approved by the U.S. Department of Labor.
• Job offer in the United States is necessary, with the employer applying on behalf of the applicant.

3. EB-3, Employment Third Preference:

• Highly skilled workers for positions requiring 2-year formal training.
• Professionals with Baccalaureate Degrees.

4. EB-4, Employment Fourth Preference:

• Broadcasters employed by the International Broadcasting Bureau.
• Ministers of Religion.
• Former or present employees of the US Government abroad.
• Former staff of the Panama Canal Company or Canal Zone Government.
• Limited to 500 visas annually.

5. EB-5, Employment Fifth Preference:

• Employment Creation Investors qualify.
• Requires an investment between $900,000 and $1,800,000 US dollars, depending on geographical area.

For a comprehensive guide on obtaining an Employment-Based Green Card read thouroughly.