U.S. Employment-Based Visas

The United States offers various employment-based visa categories designed to attract skilled workers, professionals, and entrepreneurs. These visas provide pathways to permanent residency, allowing foreign nationals to live and work in the U.S. while contributing to its economy.

Visa Categories

1: EB-1: Extraordinary Ability, Outstanding Professors and Researchers, Multinational Managers

For individuals with extraordinary abilities in arts, sciences, education, business, or athletics, outstanding professors and researchers, and multinational managers.
Eligibility: No job offer required for those with extraordinary abilities.

2: EB-2: Advanced Degree Professionals and Exceptional Ability

For individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities in the arts, sciences, or business.
Eligibility: Advanced Degree. Learn More

3: EB-3: Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Unskilled Workers

For skilled workers with at least two years of training or experience, professionals with a bachelor’s degree, and unskilled workers.
Eligibility: Job offer required.

4: EB-4: Special Immigrants

For certain special immigrants including religious workers, employees of U.S. foreign service posts, retired employees of international organizations, and other specific groups.
Eligibility: Job offer required for most categories.

5: EB-5: Immigrant Investor Program

For investors who invest a minimum of $1 million in a new commercial enterprise in the U.S. or $500,000 in a targeted employment area, creating at least 10 full-time jobs.
Eligibility: No job offer required; must meet investment and job creation criteria.

Eligibility Criteria

Labor Certification (PERM): Required for most EB-2 and EB-3 applicants to prove there are no qualified U.S. workers for the position.
Job Offer: Required for most employment-based visas except EB-1 (extraordinary ability) and EB-2 NIW.
Investment Requirement: Specific to the EB-5 visa.

Application Process

1: Labor Certification (if applicable): Employer must obtain PERM certification from the Department of Labor.

2: File Form I-140: Employer files an Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker on behalf of the applicant.

3: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: Applicant files Form I-485 if in the U.S. or completes consular processing if abroad to obtain a green card.

How PILC Can Assist:

Initial Consultation: Assess eligibility and advise on the best visa category.
Documentation Preparation: Assist with preparing and submitting necessary documents.
PERM Process: Guide employers through the labor certification process.
Application Filing: Ensure accurate and timely filing of Forms I-140 and I-485 or consular processing documents.
Follow-Up Support: Provide ongoing support and updates throughout the process, liaising with U.S. immigration authorities on your behalf.