Assisting Individuals & Businesses Across the Nation

At Dowd & Company PC, we provide a comprehensive analysis of employment-based immigration options for new-hires and existing international employees. Our experienced legal professionals know firsthand how difficult the immigration process can be for individuals coming to America for employment opportunities. We believe the education, skills, and experience foreign workers possess are indispensable to U.S. employers. That is why our law firm proudly serves clients across Richmond who need reliable guidance as they navigate complex immigration matters. 

Applying for Employment Based Immigration

In order to be considered for an employment-based visa, your prospective employer or agent must first obtain a labor certification approval from the Department of Labor. If the Department approves the certificate, the employer can file Form I-140 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). 

The following are employment-based green card categories:

  • First Preference (EB-1): For priority workers with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. Outstanding professors, researchers, and certain multinational managers can also qualify for the EB-1 visa.
  • Second Preference (EB-2): For foreign workers in professions that require advanced degrees or exceptional ability.
  • Third Preference (EB-3): For foreign workers who qualify as skilled workers, professionals, or other types of workers.
  • Fourth Preference (EB-4): To apply under this category, you must be the beneficiary of an approved Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, Form I-360.
  • Fifth Preference (EB-5): For foreign investors planning to invest substantial capital in new commercial enterprises in the U.S. that will create jobs.

FAQ: Employment-Based Visas 

Question #1: How long does it take to process an employment-based immigration petition?

A: The petition usually takes around six months to process. Form I-140 can be expedited to 15 calendar days if the petitioner pays the optional premium processing service fee.

Question #2: How many employment-based visas are available each year?

A: This is a limited number of green cards available each year for each employment-based category. If more citizens of a country apply for one category, then that category will see a backlog. USCIS will go through the backlogged cases in chronological order according to when the petition was received.

Question #3: Can family members of EB visa holders also receive immigrant visas?

A: If your petition is approved, then your spouse and minor unmarried children (under age 21) can apply for immigrant visas too. They must also complete the required application forms, obtain required civil documents, pay the required fees, and undergo medical examinations.

We Are Here to Discuss All of Your Immigration Options

Dowd & Company PC is dedicated to delivering effective immigration services built on a strong foundation of education, knowledge, experience, technology, and service. We have a stellar reputation as a leader in immigration law and are familiar with the many different challenges you might have to overcome to obtain an employment-based visa so you can legally enter the U.S. Speak to us today to about your concerns so that we can get started devising a strong strategy to protect your best interests.

To set up a case consultation with one of our friendly and knowledgeable legal professionals, please call (804) 413-6962 or fill out our online form.