L-1A classification

L-1A transferees (managerial & executive employees) and their dependents are considered “first preference” by U.S. Immigration for the purpose of U.S. permanent residence. Since they are considered to be essential to the success of the U.S. company, the U.S. company is not obligated to recruit Americans or demonstrate that Americans are not available to fill the position of the key employee.  All other categories of U.S. work visas that lead to permanent residence (green card), if based on employment, require the approval of the U.S. Department of Labor that must determine that no Americans are willing or able to fill the position in the United States. These types of U.S. permanent residence (green cards) take many years to obtain. For more information about the L-1A classification, you may click here or call our office to speak to an immigration lawyer.

Extraordinary abilities

Applicants of extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics must have extensive documentation showing sustained national or international acclaim and recognition in their field of expertise. Such applicants do not have to have a specific job offer as long as they are entering the U.S. to continue working in the field in which they have extraordinary ability.  This includes outstanding professors and researchers with at least three years of experience in teaching or research, who are recognized internationally. No labor certification is required for this classification, but the prospective employer must provide a job offer and file a petition with the USCIS. There is a cap of 40,000 applicants per year which are able to receive U.S. permanent residence through this classification.

Our team of immigration consultants and lawyers can assist you and your employer in proper formulation of a permanent job offer, acceptance of the job offer and explanation of why you are leaving a vested interest with the foreign company. We will provide you with a checklist of documents you will need and will assist you in the preparation of your application and submission of your application to the proper authorities. We also do follow-ups with government agencies to make sure that everything moves forward quickly and smoothly. Contact our office today for answers to any of your U.S. permanent residence (green card) questions.