*Consular Processing: For applicants residing outside the U.S., upon I-140 approval by USCIS (Step 2), a DS-260 immigrant visa application must be submitted to schedule an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
EB-2 & EB-3 Employment-Based Green Cards
The EB-2 and EB-3 categories are common employment-based immigrant visa classifications for individuals seeking permanent residency through a U.S. employer.
• EB-2 is intended for individuals with an advanced degree (master’s or higher), or a bachelor’s degree plus five years of progressive experience in the field.
• EB-3 includes professionals (bachelor’s degree holders), skilled workers, and unskilled workers.
A valid job offer from a U.S. employer is required for both categories, and in most cases, applicants must complete the PERM Labor Certification process through the U.S. Department of Labor before filing an immigrant petition.
PERM Labor Certification
The PERM Labor Certification is a mandatory step in most EB-2 and EB-3 green card processes. It is designed to ensure that there are no qualified and available U.S. workers for the position being offered to the foreign national.
This process requires careful analysis not only of the applicant’s qualifications—such as education and experience—but also of the job requirements, including the minimum degree, job duties, required experience, and work location.
Given the complexity and time-sensitive nature of procedures required by both the Department of Labor and USCIS, the guidance of experienced immigration attorneys is crucial to ensuring a successful outcome.
