Green Card Through a Job

There are a few ways you can get a green card through a job. Some cases require that the U.S. Department of Labor issue a certificate to show that “there are not enough U.S. workers who are able, willing, qualified, and available in the geographic area where the immigrant is to be employed and that no American workers are displaced by foreign workers”. In other words, it is necessary to prove that you are not taking away a job that could be done by an available American worker with the same qualifications.

In other cases, workers who have highly specialized skills may also qualify for a green card through a job. Immigrants with extraordinary ability in certain professions may apply under the category of “Aliens with Extraordinary Ability,” and investors/entrepreneurs may also qualify for a National Interest Waiver – both of which can be filed as a “self-petition” and do not require an employer to sponsor the petition.

The process to obtain permanent residency (green card) through a job requires several steps regardless of the category you may fall under. Visit our Business Immigration Page for more information and a list of special categories of jobs that may allow you to apply for residency. Temporary workers (non-permanent) can also apply for a visa to work legally in the United States. Again, there are several categories that allow someone to come to the United States and work temporarily.

No matter which category you may fit into, Cohen and Forman can help you navigate the often-confusing waters of the immigration system. Take the first step: contact us today for a consultation and find out if you qualify to apply for a visa or green card through a job.