Employment-Based Green Cards in New Hampshire

1. What are the employment-based green card requirements in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, the requirements for employment-based green cards are determined by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Generally speaking, applicants must meet the following criteria:

-Demonstrate that they have an offer of full-time employment from a U.S. employer;
-Demonstrate that they possess the necessary qualifications, such as a certain level of education, professional experience, licensing, and/or specialized skillset;
-Show that the job offer is in an occupation that is not in violation of any local, state, or federal laws;
-Meet the minimum salary requirements for the position; and
-Demonstrate that they can be financially self-sufficient and not become a public charge.

Additionally, certain employment-based green card categories require employers to obtain a labor certification from the Department of Labor (DOL) to confirm that no qualified U.S. worker is available to fill the position.

2. How can someone in New Hampshire apply for an employment-based green card?

To apply for an employment-based green card in New Hampshire, the applicant must first obtain a valid job offer from an employer located in the United States. The applicant must then have the employer sponsor them and file a Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After the form is approved and an immigrant visa number is available, the applicant can submit a Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to USCIS to apply for lawful permanent residence (green card).

3. Are there any restrictions on workers from New Hampshire obtaining employment-based green cards?

No, there are no restrictions on workers from New Hampshire obtaining employment-based green cards. The same requirements apply to all applicants regardless of where they are from. Applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria, including having an employer sponsor them, having a job offer in the United States, and being able to demonstrate that they have the skills and qualifications necessary for the job.

4. How long does it usually take to receive an employment-based green card in New Hampshire?

The processing time for an employment-based green card in New Hampshire can vary depending on the type of green card requested. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years or more for the process to be completed.

5. Is there a backlog for employment-based green cards in New Hampshire?

Yes, there is currently a backlog for employment-based green cards in New Hampshire. The U.S. State Department’s Visa Bulletin for October 2020 shows that the backlog for employment-based green cards in New Hampshire is currently at the fourth preference (EB-4) category.

6. How does an employer in New Hampshire sponsor a foreign national for an employment-based green card?

In order to sponsor a foreign national for an employment-based green card in New Hampshire, the employer must file a Form I-140, Petition for Alien Worker, with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The form must include documentation of the employer’s qualifications and a job offer for the foreign national. The foreign national must also submit an application for permanent residence and provide proof of all required qualifications for the position.

7. Are there any additional considerations when applying for an employment-based green card in New Hampshire?

Yes, there are additional considerations for those applying for an employment-based green card in New Hampshire. These considerations include the following:

1. Understanding the labor market in New Hampshire and how it affects the likelihood of finding a job.
2. Applying for jobs that match the requirements of the EB-2C immigrant visa category.
3. Understanding the restrictions on coming to the U.S. while an employment-based green card application is pending.
4. Applying for any necessary foreign visas at the appropriate United States consulate.
5. Gathering required documents including proof of employment, education, and other qualifications needed to support the application.
6. Complying with all applicable laws, regulations, and guidelines for employment-based immigration in New Hampshire and throughout the U.S.

8. Is it possible to become a permanent resident through an employment-based green card in New Hampshire?

Yes, it is possible to become a permanent resident through an employment-based green card in New Hampshire. The U.S. Department of State provides a range of employment-based categories in which citizens of New Hampshire may apply for permanent residence. These categories include investment-based programs, skilled worker programs, and other specialized programs to help the state’s economy.

9. What is the process for renewing an employment-based green card in New Hampshire?

The process for renewing an employment-based green card in New Hampshire is similar to the process for renewing a green card in any other state. The individual must first submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Along with the form, the individual must provide documentation proving identity and current legal permanent resident status, such as a copy of the Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or a Reentry Permit. Once USCIS has received the application, they will review it and make a decision on whether or not to approve the renewal. If approved, the individual will receive a new green card in the mail.

10. What are the benefits of having an employment-based green card in New Hampshire?

The main benefits of having an employment-based green card in New Hampshire include the ability to live and work permanently in the United States, freedom to travel in and out of the U.S., access to public benefits and services such as Social Security, the ability to bring family members to the U.S., and the potential to become a U.S. citizen after five years.

11. Can an employee in New Hampshire with an employment-based green card change jobs?

Yes, an employee with an employment-based green card in New Hampshire can change jobs. However, the process for switching employers is complex, and there are a few requirements that must be met. Generally, the new employer must file a new Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, on the employee’s behalf. Depending on the particular circumstances of the employee’s case, he or she may also have to file an application to adjust status (Form I-485) or travel outside the US and apply for an immigrant visa at a US embassy or consulate abroad. It is strongly recommended that an immigration lawyer be consulted in order to determine what is required in any given situation.

12. How does a family member of a worker with an employment-based green card in New Hampshire obtain a visa?

A family member of a worker with an employment-based green card in New Hampshire can obtain a visa through the U.S. Department of State. Depending on the family member’s relationship to the worker, they may need to apply for either an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa. For more information about the specific application process, applicants should contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country.

13. Can an employee with an employment-based green card in New Hampshire be fired from their job?

Yes, an employee with an employment-based green card in New Hampshire can be fired from their job. The employee’s immigration status does not prevent the employer from terminating their employment. However, the employer must follow all applicable laws when terminating the employee, including providing the employee with the appropriate notice and severance pay as required by law.

14. Can an employee with an employment-based green card in New Hampshire change employers while maintaining their current visa status?

Yes, an employee with an employment-based green card in New Hampshire can change employers while maintaining their current visa status. The employee’s new employer must file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to extend or transfer the current visa. The employee may continue to work for the new employer while the petition is pending.

15. How long are employment-based green cards valid for in New Hampshire?

Permanent residence through an employment-based green card is valid indefinitely, as long as the cardholder meets the requirements for maintaining their legal status in the United States.

16. Does New Hampshire have any special requirements for employers sponsoring foreign nationals for employment-based green cards?

Yes, New Hampshire does have special requirements for employers sponsoring foreign nationals for employment-based green cards. Employers must file a petition for alien worker (Form I-140) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which requires that the employer has the financial ability to pay the prevailing wage and must document that no U.S. worker is available to do the job. Additionally, employers must show that the foreign national meets certain qualifications for the job, such as education, training, experience or other special qualifications. The employer may also be required to submit a Labor Certification Application or a Schedule A designation from the U.S. Department of Labor.

17. Are there any waiting periods associated with obtaining an employment-based green card in New Hampshire?

Yes, there are waiting periods associated with obtaining an employment-based green card in New Hampshire. Depending on the category of employment-based green card, wait times can vary greatly. For example, for most employment-based immigrant visas, there is a wait time of between 3 and 10 years. Additionally, certain categories of immigrant visas may require a labor certification and this could add additional wait time.

18. What is the impact of naturalization on workers with an employment-based green card in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, naturalization will confer certain rights and privileges to those with an employment-based green card. Naturalized citizens may be eligible for certain state and federal government benefits, including Social Security, Medicaid, and access to specific state universities or colleges. Additionally, naturalized citizens are entitled to vote and may serve on juries. Naturalization may also provide workers with an employment-based green card in New Hampshire with additional job opportunities that would not have been available to them as non-citizens.

19. Are there any restrictions on the types of jobs that employees with an employment-based green card in New Hampshire can accept?

No, there are no restrictions on the types of jobs that employees with an employment-based green card in New Hampshire can accept. Green card holders in the United States are free to work in any job they choose as long as they meet the necessary qualifications and requirements.

20. What are the benefits of permanent residency through an employment-based green card in New Hampshire?

The main benefits of having a permanent residency through an employment-based green card in New Hampshire are:
1. You will be able to live and work in the United States permanently.
2. You will receive certain benefits such as Social Security benefits, Medicare, and certain tax deductions.
3. You will have the ability to apply for U.S. citizenship after five years of being a permanent resident.
4. You can bring your immediate family members to the United States, including spouse and children under the age of 21.
5. You will have access to certain government programs such as housing, food stamps, and public transportation.
6. You can travel outside the United States for short periods of time without losing your permanent resident status.
7. You can apply for loans and other credit services provided by banks in the United States.
8. You can establish your own business in New Hampshire or elsewhere in the US and take advantage of certain tax benefits.