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Frisco Employment-Based Immigration Attorney
Lawyer Providing Personalized Assistance for Employment-Based Immigration in Denton County
Immigrating to the United States for employment purposes can be a complex and overwhelming process. From obtaining the necessary visas to understanding the requirements that apply to employers and employees, there are numerous issues that will need to be addressed. In these situations, it is crucial to have an experienced immigration attorney on your side. At John W. Lawit, LLC, our dedicated Frisco immigration attorneys have extensive knowledge and experience in employment-based immigration cases.
The Different Categories of Employment-Based Immigration
There are several different categories of immigrant visas that may allow employees to permanently resettle in the United States. These categories will be based on a person's qualifications, skills, and job offers. They include:
- EB-1: This category is for priority workers who demonstrate extraordinary ability in the arts, sciences, education, business, or athletics. Outstanding professors or researchers and multinational managers or executives may also qualify for these types of visas.
- EB-2: Professionals with advanced degrees (such as master's degrees) or extraordinary abilities and skills may qualify under this category. In addition, those seeking national interest waivers may also fall into this group.
- EB-3: This category includes skilled workers (those who have at least two years of education or experience in their fields), professionals with a bachelor's degree (or foreign equivalent), and unskilled workers filling positions requiring less than two years of education or experience.
- EB-4: This classification includes special immigrant categories such as religious workers.
- EB-5: Immigrant investors who meet certain criteria may qualify under this program.
Our attorneys understand all of these categories, and we will guide you through every step of your employment-based immigration journey.
Temporary Employment-Based Visas
For immigrants who do not meet the requirements for permanent immigration to the United States Under an EB visa, temporary work visas may be available. These will usually allow immigrants to live in the U.S. for a limited number of years. Available visas may include:
- H-1B Visa: This visa is specifically designed for foreign workers in specialty occupations that require a bachelor's degree or its equivalent and specialized knowledge and experience.
- L-1 Visa: This category allows multinational companies to transfer executives, managers, or employees with specialized knowledge from an affiliated foreign office to a U.S. office.
- O-1 Visa: This visa is reserved for individuals who demonstrate extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, business, education, or athletics.
- TN Visa: This visa category is for Mexican and Canadian professionals under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
Navigating the visa application process can be complicated, as it requires extensive documentation, proof of qualifications, and adherence to specific timelines. The Frisco immigration lawyers at John W. Lawit, LLC are well-versed in this complicated process. We will provide guidance every step of the way, working with immigrants and employers to ensure that all required forms and documentation are complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
Applying for a Green Card Through Employment
To secure permanent residency through employment-based immigration, immigrants may need to go through several steps, which may include:
- Labor certification (PERM): In most cases in which immigrants receive employment sponsorship, an employer must receive certification from the U.S. Department of Labor. The certification ensures that the hiring of foreign workers will not adversely affect the wages or working conditions of U.S. workers.
- Form I-140: Once the labor certification is approved, the employer can file an immigrant petition on behalf of the employee. This petition demonstrates that the requirements for a specific employment-based category have been met.
- Priority dates and approvals: A priority date determines when an immigrant will be placed in line for permanent residence based on his or her preference category and country of birth. Once visa numbers are available, an applicant may apply for a Green Card.
If a person is currently in the United States on a temporary employment-based visa and wishes to become a permanent resident, they may be able to petition for an adjustment of status. If they are eligible, they can receive a Green Card and become a lawful permanent resident. This process involves filing Form I-485 along with supporting documents that demonstrate eligibility.
Contact Our Frisco Employment-Based Immigration Attorneys Today
At John W. Lawit, LLC, our goal is to make the immigration process as smooth as possible. If you are looking to come to the United States for employment purposes, we will guide you through each step and make sure you and your employer meet all of your requirements. We will help you address any issues that may arise, making sure to keep you advised on the status of your case and helping you understand the next steps to take. For more information about how we can help with your immigration journey, please contact us at 214-609-2242 and schedule a consultation.