The pursuit of a permanent residence visa in the USA represents the dream of many professionals and families, motivated by the desire for a life with better quality, security, stability, and opportunities.
However, the bureaucratic maze can be challenging. Choosing the right path to permanent residence makes all the difference for those who want to accelerate the process and avoid legal complications.
Before submitting your visa application, it’s helpful to know details about the main types and the importance of having support from US-licensed attorneys and international planning companies. In this article, we’ve brought tips and relevant information for those who want to live in the USA. Check it out!
What are the Permanent Residence Visas in the USA?
Permanent residence visas are divided into categories, with family and employment-based visas being the most well-known. Below, we explain some of the main ones. Take a look!
Family Visas
In the family visa category, we have visas granted to immediate relatives of US citizens and visas based on family preferences.
The first is granted to spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of US citizens over 21, who can apply for a Green Card without an annual limit.
Other relatives, such as adult children, siblings, and spouses of permanent residents, can also apply for a Green Card, but there are annual limits for these categories.
For those with family members living in the United States, applying for a visa tied to a family connection may be the best option. However, it’s important to evaluate each case individually, as there are certain restrictions.
Employment Visas
These tend to be the best option for those who want to more easily get authorization to live in the USA without complications. In this category, there are several visa classifications. Check them out!
EB-1 Visa
The EB-1 visa is a category of immigrant visa in the United States for professionals with extraordinary abilities in areas such as sciences, arts, education, business, or sports. It is divided into three subcategories:
EB-1A, for individuals with extraordinary abilities;
EB-1B, for outstanding professors and researchers; and,
EB-1C, for multinational managers and executives.
To qualify for the EB-1 visa, the professional must demonstrate international recognition and a history of notable achievements in their field. Requirements vary according to the subcategory but generally include awards, publications, membership in associations, and evidence of leadership. The EB-1 visa offers the advantage of allowing the professional to apply for a Green Card, permanent residence in the USA, without the need for a prior job offer.
Visa EB-2
The EB-2 visa is intended for professionals with advanced academic degrees or exceptional abilities in areas such as sciences, arts, or business. It allows these professionals to obtain a Green Card, permanent residence in the USA, and work legally in the country. There are two main subcategories of the EB-2 visa:
One for professionals with a postgraduate degree or equivalent and another for those with exceptional abilities.
Another, the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver), which waives the need for a job offer and labor certification, is aimed at professionals whose skills benefit the national interest of the USA.
Visa EB-3
The EB-3 visa allows qualified foreign workers, professionals, and unskilled workers to obtain a Green Card and permanent residence in the country. This category is divided into three main subcategories:
Skilled workers, who have at least two years of experience or training;
Professionals, who have a bachelor’s degree; and,
Other workers, who perform unskilled work with less than two years of training or experience.
To qualify for the EB-3 visa, the foreign worker usually needs a job offer from a US employer and, in many cases, a labor certification from the US Department of Labor.
This certification ensures that there are no qualified American workers available for the position and that hiring the foreigner will not adversely affect the wages and working conditions of American workers.
EB-4 Visa
Visa intended for “special immigrants,” a diverse group that includes religious workers, employees of international organizations, and translators who have worked for the US government. This category recognizes the unique contribution these individuals bring to American society.
To qualify for the EB-4 visa, the applicant must meet specific requirements, which vary according to the subcategory. For example, religious workers must demonstrate that they are members of a recognized religious denomination and intend to work in a religious function in the USA.
Employees of international organizations must prove their employment and contribution to the organization. Translators who have worked for the US government must provide evidence of their service.
Visa EB-5
The EB-5 visa is a US immigration program that allows foreign investors to obtain a Green Card, permanent residence, by investing a significant amount of capital in a US business and creating jobs for American workers. The goal of the program is to stimulate the American economy by attracting foreign investment and generating jobs.
To qualify for the EB-5 visa, the investor must invest a minimum of $800,000 in high unemployment areas (TEAs) or $1,050,000 in other areas and create at least 10 full-time jobs for American workers. The investment can be made in a new business or in an existing business that is experiencing financial difficulties.
Other Visa Categories
In addition to family and employment-based visa categories, the United States offers other options for those seeking permanent residence. The Diversity Visa Program, known as the Green Card Lottery, grants visas to people from countries with low immigration rates to the USA, promoting diversity in the American population.
Victims of crimes who cooperate with law enforcement authorities may also be eligible for visas, as a form of protection and recognition for their collaboration in justice.
For those fleeing persecution or violence in their home countries, refugee and asylee visas offer an opportunity to start a new life in the United States. These visas are granted to people who demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution based on political opinion, religion, race, or membership in a particular social group.
It’s important to know that each of these categories has its own requirements and processes, and it’s essential to seek guidance from US-licensed attorneys to determine the best option for each case.
How to get a Permanent Residence Visa in the USA?
Obtaining a permanent residence visa involves filling out forms, submitting supporting documents, paying fees, and, in some cases, participating in interviews.
To increase the chances of success in the application, it’s important to carefully analyze the requirements of each category and seek guidance from licensed attorneys to determine the best option and ensure the success of the process.
Why Choose D4u Immigration?
For those who already have an approved I-140 form, the urgency to obtain permanent residence is even greater, as it guarantees legal permanence in the country. D4U Immigration offers administrative and organizational support for those seeking speed and security in this process.
As you can see, the pursuit of a permanent residence visa in the USA requires planning, organization, and knowledge of immigration laws. Each path has its particularities, requiring attention to details and compliance with requirements. To ensure legal adequacy and the choice of the most suitable visa type for your case, it is essential to seek specialized professional guidance, which will ensure that the process is conducted correctly and efficiently.
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Remember that the process can be long and complex and that there are several variables to consider. Stay calm, be persistent, and don’t give up on your dream of building a future in the United States.
Need guidance to organize your process with more strategy and security? Contact D4U Immigration and discover how our support can help you better structure your journey to the United States.
