US Work Visas & Employer-Sponsored Green Cards
If you have a US employer willing to sponsor you, you may qualify for a work visa or green card. Immigration attorney Michael Ashoori breaks down the top options.
Employer-Sponsored Green Card (PERM Process)
For: Full-time job offers in the US.
3-Step Process:
1. PERM Labor Certification
o Employer proves no qualified US workers available.
o Must pay prevailing wage (same as US workers).
2. Immigrant Petition (I-140)
o Employer files to sponsor you.
3. Adjustment of Status (if in US) or Consular Processing (if abroad).
Timeline:
· 1.5+ years (longer for India/China due to visa backlogs).
H-1B Visa (Specialty Occupation)
For: Jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree (e.g., IT, engineering, finance).
Requirements:
- · Employer must file a petition.
- · Annual cap (lottery system).
- · Valid for 3 years (renewable to 6 years).
Tip: H-1B can lead to a green card (dual intent visa).
TN Visa (Canada/Mexico Only)
For: Professionals in 60+ listed jobs (doctors, engineers, consultants).
Benefits:
- · No lottery (unlike H-1B).
- · Faster processing.
O-1 Visa (Extraordinary Ability)
For: Top talent in science, arts, business, or athletics.
Requirements:
- · Meet 3+ criteria (awards, high salary, published work, etc.).
- · Employer sponsorship required.
Example: A scientist with international awards could qualify.
L-1 Visa (Intracompany Transfer)
For: Employees transferring from a foreign company to a related US company.
Requirements:
- · Worked 1+ year for the foreign company.
- · Coming to the US as a manager, executive, or specialized knowledge worker.
Benefit: Can lead to a green card (EB-1C).
Key Takeaways
- Best for quick entry: H-1B, TN, L-1.
- Best for long-term stay: Employer-sponsored green card.
- For elite professionals: O-1 visa.
- Processing times vary by country (India/China face long waits).
- Need help? Consult an immigration lawyer to assess your best path!