Securing a green card in the United States without employer sponsorship might be challenging yet achievable with the guidance of Beyond Global Partners. While many employment-based green card categories require a job offer and employer sponsorship, there are alternative paths for individuals who wish to pursue permanent residency independently. This article explores some of the options available, their specific eligibility criteria, challenges, and benefits. With Beyond Global Partners’ expertise, you can navigate these options and achieve your U.S. immigration goals.
EB-1A Extraordinary Ability
The EB-1A category is an option for individuals with extraordinary abilities in their respective fields, such as sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. To qualify for the EB-1A category, applicants must demonstrate “extraordinary ability” by sustained national or international acclaim and recognition in their field of expertise. This is where we can provide invaluable assistance, guiding you through the extensive documentation process required to establish your extraordinary ability.
The standard for demonstrating extraordinary ability is quite high, intended for individuals who have risen to the top of their fields. If you have a record of significant accomplishments and a history of success evidenced by awards, recognition, publications, patents, media coverage, letters of recommendation, or other relevant evidence, you may be eligible. Our team will help you compile and present the strongest possible case.
A key benefit of the EB-1A category is that it usually has no backlog in visa availability, offering a quicker path to residency compared to other visa categories. Applicants in the U.S. can file Adjustment of Status (I-485) applications concurrently with the I-140 when their priority date is current. This allows applicants and their families to apply for EAD (work permit) and Advance Parole (travel permit) benefits while the I-485 is pending.
EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW)
The EB-2 NIW is an option for individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities in fields deemed to be in the national interest of the U.S. This category suits those who may not meet the high threshold of the EB-1A but can demonstrate that their proposed endeavor has substantial merit and national importance, they are well-positioned to advance the endeavor, and it benefits the U.S. to waive the job offer requirement.
Beyond Global Partners excels in assisting individuals with advanced degrees in STEM fields to navigate the EB-2 NIW process. USCIS recognizes the importance of progress in STEM fields, especially in critical and emerging technologies or areas important to U.S. competitiveness or national security.
The EB-2 NIW is also a great option for entrepreneurs undertaking a proposed endeavor through a U.S.-based entity where the entrepreneur plays an active, central role. One primary advantage of the EB-2 NIW visa is that it does not require employer sponsorship, providing greater flexibility and autonomy in pursuing career goals.
EB-5 Investor Visa
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program allows individuals to obtain a green card by making a qualifying investment in a new commercial enterprise that creates jobs for U.S. workers. This category benefits the U.S. economy by attracting foreign capital investment and job creation.
Investors can choose between direct investment or investment through a Regional Center. Regional Center investments benefit from more flexible job creation requirements, allowing investors to rely on indirect job creation.
Beyond Global Partners specializes in guiding clients through the EB-5 process, from identifying qualifying investments to filing the necessary petitions. The standard investment amount is $1,050,000, or $800,000 for investments in a targeted employment area (TEA). Despite the significant financial commitment, this option provides a pathway to permanent residency without employer sponsorship and without specific education or experience requirements.
With the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, an investor in the U.S. can file an Adjustment of Status (I-485) application concurrently with an I-526 or I-526E investor petition when the priority date is current. This allows investors and their families to apply for EAD (work permit) and Advance Parole (travel permit) benefits while the I-485 is pending.
Beyond Global Partners works with select Regional Centers to minimize investment risks and performs thorough immigration-related due diligence to ensure investors are fully informed about their projects. We help you conduct comprehensive due diligence and vet potential investment projects.
Want to Know More?
Navigating the green card process without employer sponsorship opens doors for certain individuals. The EB-1A, EB-2 NIW, and EB-5 Investor Visa provide distinct paths for self-petitioning and achieving permanent residency in the U.S.
Consulting with the experienced attorneys at Beyond Global Partners is crucial to understanding the nuances of each option and ensuring a successful application process. Contact Beyond Global Partners today to explore your options and begin your journey toward permanent residency in the United States.
