Houston EB-2 Visa Lawyer
At Abbasi Immigration Law Firm, we help you navigate the EB-2 visa application process. Our team of EB-2 lawyers in Houston help you understand if you qualify the visa, the application steps, expected timelines, and associated fees.
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Find the Right EB-2 Visa Lawyer in Houston for Your Immigration Needs
The EB-2 visa offers a path to permanent residency for professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities, seeking to contribute to the United States economy. The application process can be complex and requires the guidance of an experienced EB 2 visa lawyer with the Abbasi Immigration Law Firm. Choosing the right attorney is not only crucial for a successful application but also ensures you avoid potential pitfalls and setbacks during the green card process.
In this overview, we will discuss the qualifications needed for the EB-2 visa category, the application process, and the importance of building a strong case with the help of an EB 2 visa lawyer with the Abbasi Immigration Law Firm. We will also provide guidance on selecting the right immigration attorney and offer additional resources for applicants. By understanding the requirements and navigating the process with the help of a skilled EB 2 visa lawyer, you can increase your chances of success and make your dream of living and working in the United States a reality.
Key Takeaways
- Applicants for an EB-2 visa must demonstrate exceptional ability in their field and provide evidence of a degree, diploma, certificate or ten years of work experience.
- Labor certification and job offer are necessary components to maximize chances of success for the application process.
- An experienced immigration attorney with expertise in EB-2 visas like those with the Abbasi Immigration Law Firm can greatly increase your chance at approval by reviewing submissions accurately, providing invaluable insights and offering timely support.
Understanding the EB-2 Visa Category
The EB-2 visa category is designed for individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities in science, arts, or business who wish to contribute to the US economy. To be eligible, applicants must possess an advanced degree or demonstrate exceptional ability in their field and meet the requirements for the specific subcategory of the EB-2 visa. A clear grasp of these categories is pivotal to ascertain the most suitable route for your immigration journey.
There are two main categories within the EB-2 visa: Advanced Degree Professionals and Exceptional Ability Candidates. The former is for those with degrees higher than a bachelor’s degree, while the latter is for individuals with expertise significantly above that ordinarily encountered in their field. We will now explore these two categories and their respective qualifications in more detail.
Advanced degree professionals must meet the following criteria:
Hold a degree beyond a bachelor’s degree or possess a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of five years of progressive experience in their field
Belong to professions such as engineers, physicians, surgeons, architects, lawyers, accountants, and pharmacists
The advanced degree must be a U.S. academic or professional degree or a foreign equivalent, recognized by the United States.
The term “progressive experience” refers to at least five years of work experience in the specialty field that demonstrates continuous growth and development of knowledge and skills. This experience should be relevant to the foreign national’s proposed endeavor in the United States. Fulfilling these qualifications is vital for a successful EB-2 visa application in the Advanced Degree Professionals category.
Exceptional ability candidates must demonstrate a degree of expertise significantly above that ordinarily encountered in their field. To qualify for this subcategory, applicants must meet at least three of the criteria established by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In some cases, a baccalaureate degree combined with five years of progressive experience in the field may also qualify an applicant for the EB-2 visa category.
An EB-2 visa applicant can demonstrate their exceptional ability in their field by providing evidence such as:
a degree, diploma, or certificate
ten years of work experience
professional licenses
recognition of outstanding achievements or widespread international acclaim in their field
This evidence should demonstrate how the foreign national’s proposed endeavor will greatly benefit the United States and enhance the probability of a successful application.
Navigating the EB-2 Visa Application Process
While the EB-2 visa application process may seem daunting, comprehending the involved steps can notably boost your chances of success. The process involves labor certification, a job offer, or a national interest waiver for those without a job offer but with skills valuable to the US.
To ensure a smooth application process, it’s crucial to be aware of the entire labor certification process, from labor certification to the submission of the required documents and forms. In the proceeding text, we will cover the details of labor certification, job offers, and national interest waivers, all integral to the EB-2 visa application process.
Labor certification and job offer are required for most EB-2 visa applicants, proving the employer’s ability to pay the offered wage and the unavailability of qualified US workers. The purpose of labor certification is to affirm that the applicant’s employment in the U.S. won’t displace any other U.S. workers and that their labor is unique and cannot be replicated by any other workers inside the United States.
To obtain labor certification for an EB-2 visa application, the employer must follow these steps:
Secure a certified Application for Permanent Employment Certification (ETA Form 9089) from the Department of Labor (DOL).
Submit the labor certification application to the relevant USCIS Service Center, along with a Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker.
The USCIS will evaluate the labor certification and the Form I-140 to assess eligibility for the EB-2 visa.
If approved, the applicant can proceed with the subsequent steps of the visa application process.
The National Interest Waiver (NIW) allows certain foreign national applicants to bypass the labor certification and job offer requirements by proving their work benefits the US and serves the national interest. To be eligible for a National Interest Waiver, applicants must possess an advanced degree or exceptional ability and demonstrate significant qualifications for prospective national benefit.
Applicants of the exceptional ability category are eligible for a National Interest Waiver. This waiver allows them to bypass certain requirements of the immigration process. To demonstrate eligibility, they must provide evidence of the substantial merit and national importance of their work, such as:
awards
recognition
publications
research papers
letters of recommendation from experts in the field
Obtaining a National Interest Waiver can significantly streamline the EB-2 visa application process for those who meet the necessary qualifications.
Building a Strong EB-2 Visa Case
Constructing a robust EB-2 visa case is pivotal for a successful application. This involves thorough document preparation and proving the substantial merit and national importance of the applicant’s work. By ensuring that all required documents are accurate and comprehensive, you increase your chances of approval and avoid potential setbacks during the green card process.
In the subsequent sections, we will address the significance of meticulous document preparation and the evidence required to illustrate substantial merit and national importance. With the right documentation and a compelling case prepared by the immigration attorneys at the Abbasi Immigration Law Firm, you can significantly increase your chances of obtaining an EB-2 visa.
Proper document preparation, including educational and work experience credentials, is crucial for a successful EB-2 visa application. Ensuring that all required documents are accurate, comprehensive, and submitted on time can make a significant difference in the outcome of your application.
Some of the necessary documents for a successful EB-2 visa application include:
Form I-140
Evidence of advanced degree or exceptional ability
Letters of recommendation
Academic transcripts and diplomas
Employment offer or job contract
Proof of relevant work experience
Publications or research papers
Documentation of awards or recognition in the field
It is advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer, well-versed in immigration law, to ensure all required documents are included in the application.
Applicants must demonstrate that their work has both substantial merit and national importance, particularly for those seeking a National Interest Waiver. This can be done by providing evidence such as awards or recognition in the field, publications or research papers, and letters of recommendation from experts in the field.
To be approved for an EB-2 visa, the applicant must provide evidence of the substantial merit and national importance of their work. This includes demonstrating the significance and potential benefit to the nation, as well as how their work will contribute to the improvement of an important factor of life in the U.S.. By presenting a compelling case and providing the necessary evidence, you can increase your chances of EB-2 visa approval.
Selecting the Right EB-2 Visa Attorney in Houston
Choosing the appropriate EB-2 visa attorney in Houston with the Abbasi Immigration Law Firm is vital for a successful EB-2 visa application. An experienced attorney can:
Guide you through the application process
Ensure that all necessary documents are submitted accurately and on time
Provide invaluable support throughout the entire process.
In the subsequent sections, we will address the primary considerations when selecting an immigration attorney, including:
Experience
Expertise
Communication
Support
By choosing the right attorney with the Abbasi Immigration Law Firm, you can increase your chances of success and make the immigration process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Experience and Expertise
Choose an attorney with experience and expertise in EB-2 visa applications, ensuring they understand the specific requirements and documentation needed. An attorney’s experience and expertise can significantly impact the success rate of EB-2 visa applications.
An experienced attorney like those with the Abbasi Immigration Law Firm can meticulously review your submissions to ensure accuracy and consistency, enhancing the likelihood of approval. Furthermore, experienced attorneys have likely managed multiple EB-2 visa cases before, providing them with invaluable insights and strategies to address any potential obstacles and present a compelling case to immigration authorities.
Communication and Support
Effective communication and support from your immigration attorney at the Abbasi Immigration Law Firm are crucial throughout the application process, ensuring you stay informed and receive guidance when needed. An attorney’s communication skills and professionalism can greatly impact your experience and the outcome of your application.
Technology can facilitate communication and support during the EB-2 visa process, including:
Online applications
Electronic document submission
Video conferencing
Email and online messaging
Online case tracking
By choosing an attorney with the Abbasi Immigration Law Firm who values effective communication and provides timely support, you can significantly increase your chances of a successful EB-2 visa application.
Additional Resources for EB-2 Visa Applicants
Additional resources for EB-2 visa applicants can be found on official US government websites, providing information on forms, priority dates, and foreign labor certification. These resources can be invaluable in helping you understand the requirements and process for a successful EB-2 visa application.
Examples of these resources include the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website, which offers information on the EB-2 visa category, filing fees, and required forms. The Department of Labor (DOL) website can also provide information on labor certification requirements and processes.
Leveraging these resources and collaborating with a seasoned immigration attorney at the Abbasi Immigration Law Firm can bolster your chances of a successful EB-2 visa application.
Summary
In conclusion, the EB-2 visa category offers a valuable opportunity for professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities to contribute to the United States economy. Understanding the requirements and navigating the application process with the help of a skilled immigration attorney at the Abbasi Immigration Law Firm can significantly increase your chances of success.
By selecting the right attorney at the Abbasi Immigration Law Firm with experience, expertise, communication, and support, you can make your dream of living and working in the United States a reality. Begin your journey today and take the first step towards a successful EB-2 visa application.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of an EB2 visa consists of the Form I-140 fee (if self-petitioning) of $700 and the Form DS-260 fee of $325. Additionally, an $85 biometrics fee may be applied, as well as an I-485 filing fee which usually falls between $750-$1,140. (Always check with USCIS.gov for the most up to date fees.)
Getting an EB2 visa can be a challenging process, as it requires foreign nationals to demonstrate exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business, usually through a master’s degree or higher. However, with the help of an experienced immigration attorney, the process is achievable.
Hiring an immigration lawyer for a US visa can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the visa type and other factors such as services required, experience of the lawyer, and location.
Yes, a lawyer can apply for an EB-2 NIW green card if they can demonstrate their work has national or global implications in the field of law.
Advanced Degree Professionals must possess a degree beyond a bachelor’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree with at least five years of progressive experience, while Exceptional Ability Candidates need to demonstrate an expertise far above the ordinary level in their field.