What are the requirements for obtaining an employment-based immigrant visa?
As a lawyer, I can advise you on the requirements for obtaining an employment-based immigrant visa. The requirements vary depending on the specific category of employment-based visa and the priority date of the applicant's petition.
The first step in obtaining an employment-based immigrant visa is to have a job offer from a U.S. employer. The employer must file a Form I-140, Petition for Alien Worker, with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The petitioner must submit evidence that they have the ability to pay the offered wage for the job position.
The next step is the priority date determination. The priority date is the date on which the petition is filed. The priority date is important because the number of employment-based immigrant visas that are available each year is limited. Therefore, visas are distributed based on priority dates, with the earliest priority dates receiving visas first.
For some categories of employment-based immigrant visas, the applicant may need to obtain a labor certification from the Department of Labor. This process involves proving to the Department of Labor that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the job position being offered.
Once the USCIS approves the petition, the applicant can apply for an immigrant visa through the Department of State. If the applicant is already in the United States on a nonimmigrant visa, they may be able to adjust their status to permanent resident status without leaving the country.
It is important to note that there are potential limitations and exceptions to the advice given, depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant's case. It is advisable to consult with a licensed attorney for specific legal advice regarding your situation.