Memphis Employment Immigration Attorneys

United States Employment-Based Immigration

Individuals who wish to travel to the U.S. for business purposes, as well as companies that want to bring foreign workers to the United States, may petition for employment-based visas. There are many different employment-based (EB) “preference immigrant” visas, all of which allow foreign individuals a path to lawful permanent resident status and, ultimately, citizenship.

If you need help with an immigration matter, including employment-based immigration and EB visas, reach out to our team at Donati Law, PLLC. Our Memphis employment immigration attorneys serve clients state- and nationwide, offering highly personalized and professional service. We are passionate about helping individuals and entities navigate the often complex and ever-changing U.S. immigration system and are happy to discuss your case with you during an initial consultation.

Schedule an appointment with our team today by calling (901) 209-5500 or by submitting an online request form here on our website.

What Is Employment Immigration?

Employment immigration allows foreign individuals to lawfully live and work in the United States. There are several different types of employment-based visas available to foreign nationals who wish to work in the U.S., either temporarily or permanently. Some of these visas are limited in the number issued each year, while others are not.

Some of the main categories of EB visas include:

  • H-1B Visas: H-1B visas are temporary visas that allow certain foreign “specialty occupation” professionals to reside and work in the U.S. for specified amounts of time.
  • H-2A Visas: H-2A visas allow agricultural workers from certain eligible countries to temporarily live and work in the United States.
  • H-2B Visas: H-2B visas are temporary visas available to “seasonal” workers who are not in the agricultural industry.
  • EB-1 Visas: EB-1 visas, or “first preference” visas, are issued to foreigners with “extraordinary” abilities in specific professions, such as the sciences or arts
  • EB-2 Visas: EB-2 visas, or “second preference” visas, are available to foreign professionals with advanced degrees and/or exceptional ability
  • EB-3 Visas: EB-3 visas, or “third preference” visas, are granted to certain skilled workers and professionals, as well as certain unskilled workers

While this list represents some of the most common employment-based visas issued to foreign workers, it is not exhaustive. You may qualify for another type or category of visa, depending on the specific details of your situation. We encourage you to reach out to our Memphis employment immigration lawyers at Donati Law, PLLC for more information.

How Do You Obtain a U.S. Employment Visa?

The process of obtaining a U.S. employment-based visa differs somewhat depending on the type and category of visa being sought. However, there are some general similarities.

To obtain a U.S. employment visa, you will likely need to do the following:

  • Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements for the type of visa for which you are applying
  • Complete and file all necessary and applicable paperwork and forms, such as evidence of national or international acclaim, approved individual labor certifications, etc.
  • Have your employer petition for you by filing a Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, along with accompanying information/documents

Once your petition is approved by United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS), you will be issued a visa once a visa number becomes available (when applicable) and can travel to the U.S. to live and work. You may then apply for a Green Card (lawful permanent resident status).

You may also be able to petition to bring your spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 with you on an appropriate visa, such as an E34 Spouse of a Skilled Worker or E-14/E-15 visa. Our team at Donati Law, PLLC is committed to helping families stay together and can assist you with this process, as well as all types of family immigration.

Schedule a Consultation with Our Team Today

If you are a foreign professional wishing to obtain an employment-based visa to work in the U.S., or if you are a United States-based employer or corporate entity seeking to bring workers to the U.S., reach out to Donati Law, PLLC. Our firm can assist you with all aspects of your immigration matter. We offer a high level of client service and communication; we will keep you updated on the status of your petition and case throughout the legal process.

For more information, contact us at (901) 209-5500 and set up a consultation with one of our Memphis employment immigration attorneys.