What You Need To Know About EB-2 Visas
Are you a skilled professional looking to work and live in the United States? If so, the EB-2 visa might be the right option for you. Navigating the application process can be complex, but with the help of our Jacksonville FL EB-2 visa attorney, you can better understand the requirements and increase your chances of success.
The EB-2 visa can open the door to many opportunities in the United States. Whether you’re a scientist, doctor, engineer, or artist, this visa might be the right fit for you if you meet the qualifications. This article will help you understand what an EB-2 visa is, who is eligible for it, and how to apply.
Quick Summary:
- The EB-2 visa is a second-preference employment-based visa for skilled workers and professionals with advanced degrees. It enables these individuals to live and work in the United States, aiming to attract talented people to contribute to the country’s growth. This visa can lead to permanent residency and allows for an extended stay and work in the U.S.
- To qualify, applicants can fall into three main categories: Advanced Degree Professionals, Individuals with Exceptional Abilities, or those eligible for a National Interest Waiver. Advanced Degree Professionals need a master’s degree or higher, or a bachelor’s degree plus five years of experience. Individuals with Exceptional Abilities must demonstrate outstanding skills, while the National Interest Waiver allows certain applicants to apply without a specific job offer if their work benefits the U.S. significantly.
- An EB-2 visa offers several key benefits for skilled foreign workers and their families. It can lead to permanent residency in the U.S., allowing you to live and work there indefinitely, with the option to apply for U.S. citizenship later. This visa also enhances career opportunities by enabling you to work in your field of expertise and secure a job with a U.S. employer. Additionally, your immediate family members can join you in the U.S., with opportunities for them to work or attend school as well.
- To apply for an EB-2 visa, you must first meet eligibility requirements. Next, gather necessary documents and obtain a job offer from a U.S. employer. Then, secure a PERM Labor Certification from the Department of Labor, file Form I-140 with USCIS, and wait for approval. After your petition is approved, you can either apply for the visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate or adjust your status if already in the U.S., leading to the possibility of obtaining a green card.
What is an EB-2 Visa?
An EB2 visa is a second-preference employment-based immigration visa category. This type of visa allows skilled workers and professionals with advanced degrees to live and work in the United States. It’s designed for people who have special skills or education beyond what most people have in their job field.
The main goal of the EB-2 visa is to bring talented and educated individuals to the U.S. to fill important jobs and contribute to the country’s growth. The visa allows these professionals to work in the U.S. for an extended period and can even lead to permanent residency.
What are the Eligibility Criteria for EB-2 Visa?
If you’re interested in applying for an EB-2 visa, knowing if you meet the eligibility criteria is important. Understanding these requirements can help you decide if this visa is the right choice for you and guide you through the application process. Here are the main requirements you need to qualify for this visa:
Advanced Degree Professionals (EB2-A)
This category is for people who have an advanced degree, such as a master’s degree or higher, or a degree that is equivalent from another country. For example, if you have a degree in engineering, medicine, or business, you might be eligible. It can also include those with a bachelor’s degree plus at least five years of progressive work experience.
Individuals with Exceptional Abilities (EB2-B)
You can apply under this category if you don’t have an advanced degree but have exceptional skills in your field. Exceptional abilities mean you are highly skilled in science, the arts, or business. To qualify, you must show proof of your outstanding talents, such as awards, publications, or a high level of recognition in your field.
National Interest Waiver (NIW)
The National Interest Waiver is a special option within the EB-2 visa. If your work is vital to the U.S. and benefits the country significantly, you can apply without a specific job offer. To qualify for the NIW, you must show that your work has a significant positive impact on the U.S. and serves the country’s interests.
What Are the Benefits of Obtaining an EB-2 Visa?
An EB-2 visa can offer numerous benefits for skilled foreign workers and their families. Understanding these advantages lets you decide whether pursuing an EB-2 visa is right for you.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: One of the most significant advantages of the EB-2 visa is that it can lead to permanent residency in the U.S. This means you can eventually become a U.S. permanent resident, also known as a green card holder. With a green card, you can live and work in the U.S. for as long as you want and apply for U.S. citizenship later.
- Enhanced Career Opportunities: An EB-2 visa allows you to work in your field of expertise in the U.S. It can help you secure a job with a U.S. employer who values your advanced skills or exceptional abilities. This visa opens doors to new career opportunities and can help you advance in your profession.
- Family Benefits: With an EB-2 visa, your immediate family members, such as your spouse and children, can also benefit. They can join you in the U.S. and may be able to work or go to school while you are there. This makes it easier for your whole family to adjust to life in the U.S.
How Do I Apply for an EB-2 Visa?
Getting an EB-2 visa involves several steps and requires support from your U.S. employer. By following these steps, you can make the process smoother and get closer to your goal of working in the U.S. Here’s a guide to help you understand the EB-2 visa process:
- Check Your Eligibility: Before you start the application process, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. You need either an advanced degree or exceptional abilities in your field. If you’re applying under the National Interest Waiver (NIW), you must show that your work benefits the U.S. significantly.
- Get Your Documents Ready: Gather all the necessary documents to support your application. This includes proof of your degree, evidence of your exceptional abilities, and other requirements.
- Obtain a Job Offer: A job offer from a U.S. employer is important to the EB-2 visa application process. The job offer must align with your qualifications and be in a field that matches your advanced degree or exceptional ability.
- Obtain a PERM Labor Certification: The PERM Labor Certification is a process where the U.S. The Department of Labor (DOL) confirms that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the job you’ve been offered. This certification shows that hiring you won’t negatively impact U.S. workers’ wages or working conditions.
- File Form I-140: To apply for the EB-2 visa, you must file Form I-140, the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker. This form is submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Your employer usually files this form if you have a job offer, but you can also file it yourself if you’re applying for the NIW.
- Wait for Approval: Once you’ve submitted Form I-140, you must wait for USCIS to process and approve your petition. The USCIS will review your documents and determine if you meet the requirements for the EB-2 visa.
- Apply for a Visa or Adjust Status: If your Form I-140 is approved, you can either apply for an EB-2 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate if you’re outside the U.S. or adjust your status to permanent resident if you’re already in the U.S. This step involves submitting additional forms and attending an interview. If everything goes well, you’ll be granted a green card, allowing you to live and work in the U.S. permanently.
Why Do I Need an EB-2 Visa Attorney in Jacksonville, FL?
Applying for an EB-2 visa can take time and effort. It involves a lot of paperwork and specific rules you must follow closely. Here’s how our Jacksonville EB-2 visa attorney can help:
- Understanding the Requirements: We can help you understand and ensure you meet them. We can also help you gather the necessary documents and evidence to support your application.
- Preparing Your Application: The application process involves filling out and filing detailed forms. We can help you correctly complete these forms and avoid common mistakes that could delay or harm your application.
- Handling Legal Challenges: Sometimes, problems can arise during the application process. We can help you address these issues and provide solutions to keep your application on track.
Having an EB-2 visa attorney in Florida can help with your visa application. Our Jackson immigration attorney can help you increase your chances of obtaining a green card and building a successful life in the United States.
Call Our Jacksonville FL EB-2 Visa Attorney Now!
An EB-2 visa can be a great way to advance your career and start a new life in the U.S. It can lead to permanent residency, which brings many benefits. While the process can be complicated, understanding the requirements and steps involved is essential. With the correct information and preparation, you can navigate the application process more efficiently and make the most of this visa’s opportunities.
At Scarborough Law, our Jacksonville EB-2 visa attorney can help you understand what the EB-2 visa is and who can apply for it. We’ll explain how the visa works and what it offers. We’ll let you know if you meet the requirements and what steps to take next. Our immigration law firm is here to help make the visa process easier for you.
If you’re considering applying for an EB-2 visa, now is the time to start. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation, and let us help you turn your visa goals into reality.