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Green Card Through Employment

One common way people obtaining their U.S. Green Card is through employment-based immigration.

There are several types of employment-based immigration. Here, we will discuss Employment-Based Immigration Third Preference (EB-3), Second Preference (EB-2), and First Preference (EB-1) in order of the number of applicants.

 

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If you provide some basic information about your employment-based green card case (any type), we can let you know the process and costs.

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• Employment-Based Immigration Third Preference (EB-3)

 

This is the most commonly chosen method.

 

EB-3 is broadly divided into two categories: skilled workers or professionals and unskilled workers.

Jobs that require at least two years of education or experience, such as computer engineers, accountants, and aircraft mechanics, are classified as EB-3 skilled workers/professionals.

Jobs that require less education or experience are classified as EB-3 unskilled workers. For example, general cooks, hairdressers, and drivers are classified as EB-3 unskilled workers.

A crucial factor in the success of EB-3 immigration is the employer's ability to prove that they have tried to hire U.S. workers (permanent residents or citizens) but were unable to find qualified candidates.

 

If the process goes smoothly, as of 2024, it takes approximately 2.5 years for skilled workers or professionals and about 4 years for unskilled workers.

• Employment-Based Immigration Second Preference (EB-2)

 

EB-2 is divided into two categories: advanced degree holders and National Interest Waivers (NIW).

(A) Advanced Degree Holders:

The position must require a person with at least a master's degree. The most straightforward examples are pharmacists, dentists, and lawyers.

Similar to EB-3, the most crucial factor for success is the employer's ability to prove that they have tried to hire U.S. workers (permanent residents or citizens) but were unable to find qualified candidates.

If the process goes smoothly, as of 2024, it takes approximately 2.5 years.

(B) National Interest Waiver (NIW)

 

This category is for individuals who can significantly benefit U.S. national interests. Nowadays, people working in cutting-edge fields such as AI, computing, and engineering have an advantage. However, individuals from other fields can qualify if they can prove substantial benefits to U.S. national interests.

The key term here is "substantial benefit," which is somewhat vague. Therefore, it is crucial to convincingly explain the applicant's abilities and the significant economic or other impacts derived from them. For example, if a scientist is applying, it would be beneficial to have a recommendation letter from an authority in the field stating that the applicant's work will greatly contribute to U.S. national interests.

If the process goes smoothly, as of 2024, it takes approximately 2 years.

• Employment-Based Immigration First Preference (EB-1)

 

EB-1 is divided into three categories:

  • Individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics

  • Outstanding professors or researchers

  • Multinational executives or managers

  1. Individuals with extraordinary ability: Generally, applicants must be able to demonstrate international recognition.

  2. Outstanding professors or researchers: Applicants must be internationally recognized for their achievements or have at least 3 years of experience in teaching or research.

  3. Multinational executives or managers: Applicants must have worked for at least one year for the employer or its affiliate.

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