EMPLOYMENT BASED IMMIGRATION

Overview

There are approximately 140,000 employment based visas awarded each fiscal year (October1st – September 30th). You may file a petition to try to obtain one of these limited employment based visas if you qualify under one of the five preference categories. Follow this link for more information on these five preference categories. To obtain one of these visas, your prospective employer must be willing to help you. You must also fall. Our lawyers will work with you to ensure that (1) your petition is correct; (2) your file is complete; and (3)  all required documents are included.

Priority Date

Employment-based immigrant visas are issued in the order in which the petitions are filed until the annual limit is reached. The filing date of your petition becomes the applicant’s priority date. There may be a waiting period of several years before a priority date is reached.

The Visa Interview

An interview will be scheduled at your U.S. Embassy or Consulate. A consular officer will conduct the interview. Our lawyers will notify you of the date and time for the interview and make sure that you are prepared for all questions.

The Medical Examination

Prior to your visa interview, you will have to complete a medical examination and get any required vaccinations. Where necessary, we will assist you in getting an appointment with an authorized panel physician.

How Long Does It Take?

Employment based immigrant visa cases generally take more time because of the limited numbers and categories. The length of time varies from case to case and is hare to predict with any accuracy. Some visa applications require further administrative processing, which takes additional time after the consular officer interviews the applicant.

What about my Family Members?

Based on your approved petition, your spouse and minor unmarried children, younger than 21, may also apply for immigrant visas. Same-sex spouses of U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs), along with their minor children, are now eligible for the same immigration benefits. Consular officers at U.S. Embassies and Consulates will adjudicate their immigrant visa applications upon receipt of an approved I-130 or I-140  petition from USCIS.

Fees

In addition to your attorney fees, the application process involves various fees charged by the government. These fees are not refundable. We will review all fees with you up front and set up a payment plan when necessary.

Consult With Our Team

To discuss how one of our lawyers can assist you with your immigration matter, contact us online or call 601-957-3101.