How Can You Obtain an Employment-Based Green Card?

 Posted on March 13, 2025 in English

Green cards are permanent residency cards that allow the holder to reside in the United States and work here. They are also a crucial step for foreign nationals on the road to obtaining U.S. citizenship. In addition to the family and marriage green card categories, employers can also sponsor green cards for certain types of workers.

An experienced Falls Church, VA immigration law attorney can advise you on the process of applying for an employer-sponsored green card and on the ideal green card category based on your circumstances.  

What Is the Employer-Sponsored Green Card?

Via the employer-sponsored green card, your employer can sponsor you to obtain lawful permanent U.S. residency. Your employer applies on your behalf as the petitioner, and you are the beneficiary. This type of green card has some unique benefits, including that it is a direct route to a 10-year green card and has no conditional two-year green card period, does not require a monetary investment, and allows your spouse and minor children to qualify for a green card alongside you. However, there is a quota for employer-sponsored green cards.

What Are the Categories of Employer-Sponsored Green Cards? 

• EB-1: Green card for immigrants with extraordinary abilities who excel in their field.

• EB-2 National Interest Waiver: This green card does not require employer sponsorship and is available to exceptional individuals or those with advanced degrees who can show that their work will substantially benefit the U.S.

• EB-2: Professionals with advanced degrees who have earned an undergraduate degree and have at least five years of experience, usually white-collar workers.

• EB-3: Skilled workers and professionals who do not qualify as "highly skilled" can apply for this type of green card, such as domestic workers and construction workers, for example.

• EB-4: Special immigrants are individuals in certain fields, such as religious workers or immigrants who served in the U.S. armed forces or worked for the U.S. government abroad.

• EB-5: Immigrant investors who plan to invest in the U.S. and create at least 10 jobs can apply for this green card.

What Is the Process to Get an Employer-Sponsored Green Card?

The process of applying for an employer-sponsored green card is as follows: First, your employer will obtain a Labor Certification. Then your employer will file a petition on your behalf. After that, you will either adjust your status or apply for an immigrant visa. However, there is lengthy documentation involved in each step, and it is advisable to seek an attorney’s assistance to ensure the documentation is properly and timely completed.

Call a Falls Church, VA Green Card Lawyer

If you are an immigrant seeking to obtain a green card through an employment classification, the experienced Merrifield, VA immigration law attorneys at Salvado Law Offices are ready to answer any questions you may have about the process. Call our offices for a consultation at 703-379-9446 and speak to one of our skilled attorneys who are all committed to taking on your case and helping you on your journey to American citizenship. Se habla espanol.