Employment-Based Green Cards in New York

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

The requirements for an employment-based green card in New York are similar to those of the federal government. These include:

1. An approved Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker (Form I-140);
2. An approved job offer from a US employer;
3. Evidence demonstrating your ability to fill the job offered;
4. Evidence demonstrating any educational or experience qualifications you possess;
5. Evidence proving that you meet all applicable labor certification requirements;
6. An approved Medical Examination Form (Form I-693); and
7. A valid passport and other necessary supporting documents.

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

Someone in New York can apply for an employment-based green card by filing Form I-140, or Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker. This form must be accompanied by evidence showing the applicant’s qualifications for the job, such as proof of education and/or work experience. The employer must also submit a labor certification showing that there are no U.S. workers available to fill the position. Once the petition is approved, the applicant can then proceed with applying for a green card.

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

Yes, there are restrictions on workers from New York obtaining employment-based green cards. People from New York are subject to the annual per-country limit for employment-based green cards, which is 7.1 percent of the total green cards available. This means that it may take longer for New Yorkers to obtain an employment-based green card than it would for people from other countries. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Labor may impose additional restrictions on employers who apply for green cards on behalf of New York workers.

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

The time it takes to receive an employment-based green card in New York varies depending on several factors, including the applicant’s nationality, the priority date of the application, and the current visa availability. Generally, it can take up to two years or more for the entire green card process to be completed.

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

Yes, there is a backlog for employment-based green cards in New York City. According to the U.S. Department of State, the current wait time for New York City is approximately 15 months for professionals with advanced degrees and 24 months for professionals with Bachelor’s degrees.

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

An employer in New York can sponsor a foreign national for an employment-based green card by first filing a labor certification application with the U.S. Department of Labor. This is usually done through the Program Electronic Review Management (PERM) system. After the labor certification is approved, the employer must then file an Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, Form I-140, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once the I-140 is approved, the foreign national can apply for their green card either by adjusting their status or consular processing.

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

Yes, additional considerations may apply when applying for an employment-based green card in New York, such as determining the correct filing fees, meeting specific requirements regarding labor certification and minimum wage, and obtaining a prevailing wage determination from the New York State Department of Labor. Additionally, applicants must ensure that they meet all eligibility requirements and other criteria for the particular visa program they are applying for. Finally, applicants should be aware that there may be special requirements for employers and employees when filing for an employment-based green card in New York.

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

Yes, it is possible to become a permanent resident through an employment-based green card in New York. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers various employment-based green card categories for foreign nationals seeking to live and work in the United States permanently. The most common of these categories are EB1, EB2, EB3, EB4 and EB5. Depending on the candidate’s qualifications, they may be eligible to apply for any of these categories.

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

The process for renewing an employment-based green card in New York is the same as the process for renewing any green card, regardless of the basis for eligibility. First, the applicant must complete and submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. The form must include all relevant details and be supported by required documentation, such as proof of identity, proof of lawful status, and proof of employment authorization. The application must be filed with the appropriate filing fee. Once the application is received by USCIS, the agency will review it and either approve or deny the application. If the application is approved, USCIS will mail a new green card to the applicant’s address. It typically takes up to six months for USCIS to process an I-90 application.

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

The benefits of having an employment-based green card in New York include:
1. The ability to live and work legally in the United States.
2. Access to better job opportunities.
3. The ability to apply for U.S. citizenship after five years of residency.
4. Eligibility for certain government benefits and programs, such as Social Security, Medicaid, and SNAP.
5. The ability to bring family members to the United States.
6. The ability to travel outside the United States without risking loss of status or deportation.
7. Protection from deportation proceedings and removal orders.
8. The ability to seek lawful permanent resident status for foreign-born relatives.

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

Yes, an employee in New York with an employment-based green card can change jobs. However, to do so, they must file form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form needs to be filed before the employee begins working for the new employer.

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

A family member of a worker with an employment-based green card in New York can obtain a visa through the family-based visa category. This requires the worker to sponsor their family member for a visa. This includes filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with the USCIS, and then the family member applying for the visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.

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

Yes, an employee with an employment-based green card in New York can be fired from their job. As with any other employee, they must be dismissed according to the terms of their contract and in accordance with applicable labor laws.

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

Yes, it is possible for employees with an employment-based green card in New York to change employers while maintaining their current visa status. To do so, they must first obtain an approved I-140 petition from their new employer, as well as an approved Labor Certification from the U.S. Department of Labor. The employee must then file an I-485 form with the USCIS to adjust their status from a nonimmigrant to a permanent resident.

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

Employment-based green cards in New York are valid for 10 years.

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

Yes, New York has certain special requirements for employers sponsoring foreign nationals for employment-based green cards. For example, employers must meet certain wage requirements, provide certain job-protected leave, and file additional paperwork. Additionally, employers must provide a copy of the foreign national’s employment contract to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of the green card application process. Finally, employers must meet certain requirements regarding recruitment and nondiscrimination when selecting foreign nationals for employment.

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

Yes, there are waiting periods associated with obtaining an employment-based green card in New York. Generally, the wait time for an employment-based green card in New York can range from a few months to several years, depending on the applicant’s country of origin and the type of visa they are applying for. The processing time for green cards in New York also depends on the current demand for the particular type of visa. Additionally, certain categories of employment-based immigration applications require additional processing and/or clearances before an applicant can receive their green card.

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

Naturalization for a person with an employment-based green card in New York can have various impacts.

The most important impact is that it provides the individual with greater job security and protection against any potential employer discrimination or even deportation. Naturalized citizens may also be able to apply for certain jobs which are restricted to U.S. citizens. Naturalized citizens are also eligible to receive certain government benefits such as Social Security and Medicare. In addition, naturalization may provide access to more financial aid for higher education and college tuition assistance programs. Furthermore, naturalization also grants the right to vote in U.S. elections and the ability to travel with a U.S. passport.

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

Yes, there are restrictions on the types of jobs that employees with an employment-based green card in New York can accept. New York employers must be careful to ensure that the position offered is consistent with the type of green card held by the employee. For example, an individual with an EB-2 green card must have a job offer that requires at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience. Additionally, jobs that involve a significant criminal offense or are considered to be detrimental to U.S. national security may not be accepted.

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

The benefits of obtaining a permanent residency through an employment-based green card in New York are numerous and include:

• The ability to live and work in the United States indefinitely
• The opportunity to travel in and out of the country freely and without restrictions
• The eligibility for certain government benefits, including Social Security, Medicare, and disability insurance
• The right to apply for US citizenship after 5 years of eligible permanent residency
• The right to sponsor family members for permanent residency
• The ability to receive an unrestricted driver’s license
• The ability to purchase property in the United States.