Permanent residence in the United States based on employment

These visas ensure continuity of residence in the territory of the United States

Once a US business entity has been established, the investor or employer often wishes to obtain permanent residence for himself/herself or for certain key personnel. This often ensures continuity, which is essential for the long-term success of the business.

General Employee Options: Depending on the employer's need for certain skills and on the ability of the US job market to satisfy this need, a few visas are available for foreign workers.

A process called "Labour Certification" allows an employer to get a certain position certified as available to a foreign worker.

If a foreign worker then meets the employer's requirements, he/she can apply for permanent residence.

An employee's educational background determines the applicable wait times before such an application can be made.

In most cases, the employee is already in the United States in non-immigrant status, and then waits to adjust this status to permanent residence when the priority date becomes current.

As with non-immigrant visas, spouses and children under 21 years of age are eligible to join the primary applicant.