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Advocating For Maryland Clients In Immigration and Estate Planning Cases since 2010

Pursue Effective Solutions With Our Employment-Based Immigration Team

Employment-based immigration offers important opportunities for professionals from other countries and U.S. employers. Securing the right U.S. temporary work visa, employment green card, or work permit for you or your employee can be a critical step in achieving your goals.

Turn to IvyLaw Law Office, LLC, for the reliable legal help you deserve. We understand the unique immigration law needs of businesses and professionals. We are ready to serve you nationwide from our Greenbelt, Maryland, office.

Comprehensive Employment Immigration Services

Our legal team helps clients with a wide range of employment-based immigration matters. These include:

  • H-1B temporary visas: Ideal for professionals in specialty occupations
  • L-1 temporary visas: Intracompany transferee visas that can facilitate international business operations
  • EB-1 green cards: For individuals with extraordinary ability, multinational managers/executives and outstanding professors/researchers
  • EB-2 green cards: For professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability
  • EB-2 National Interest Waiver: For individuals whose work is considered to be of significant benefit to the national interests of the United States.
  • Work permits: Securing appropriate authorization to work in the U.S.

We understand the value of tailored solutions for our clients. We are here to provide you with employment immigration support customized to your legal needs and goals. 

Helping You With The Employment-Based Immigration Process

Securing a work visa or other employment immigration benefits involves many key steps, including:

  • Determining the appropriate visa category: It’s critical to select a visa type that matches your situation and your unique goals.
  • Gathering necessary documentation: Having the right evidence to back up your visa application can be key to helping the process move forward smoothly.
  • Filing petitions and applications: You’ll want to make sure you use the right United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) forms, complete them fully and accurately, and file them in the correct place and within the relevant timeline.
  • Attending interviews and consular processing (if required): Proper preparation can go a long way in helping you successfully navigate such matters. 

At every step of the process, it is important to ensure you are maintaining a valid legal status. Also, you want to avoid costly mistakes. We are ready to protect your best interests and goals from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions About Employment-Based Immigration

We know you have questions and concerns. The answers to these common questions can offer clarity.

How long does it take to get a work visa or employment-based green card?

Processing times can vary depending on the visa category, your birth country and current USCIS workloads. H-1B visas typically take three to six months for premium processing or six to 12 months for regular processing. L-1 visas often process faster, usually within two to four months. Employment-based green cards involve multiple steps and can take several years. EB-1 cases may be completed within 12-24 months, while EB-2 cases can take two to five years or longer depending on your country of birth.

Can my family members come with me on a work visa?

Most employment-based visas allow spouses and unmarried children under 21 to accompany you or join you later. H-1B holders can bring family members on H-4 visas, while L-1 holders can bring family on L-2 visas. Spouses on H-4 visas may be eligible for work authorization in certain circumstances, while L-2 spouses can generally apply for work permits. Children can attend school but cannot work until they reach the appropriate age and status requirements.

What happens if my employer withdraws their sponsorship during the green card process?

Employer withdrawal can significantly impact your immigration case, but options may exist depending on your current stage in the process. If you have an approved I-140 petition and have been waiting for more than 180 days, you may be able to change employers while maintaining your priority date through AC21 portability provisions. 

Do I need a job offer to apply for an employment-based green card?

Most employment-based green card categories require job offers and employer sponsorship. However, some exceptions exist, including EB-1A extraordinary ability cases and EB-2 National Interest Waiver petitions, which allow self-petitioning without employer sponsorship. These categories have strict requirements and require extensive documentation of your qualifications and achievements. We evaluate whether you qualify for self-petition categories and help you understand all available options.

How much does employment-based immigration representation cost?

Legal fees vary based on case complexity, visa category and services required. We provide transparent fee structures and discuss costs during your free consultation. Many employers cover legal fees for sponsored employees, while others require employee payment. We can help develop payment plans when appropriate and guide you in understanding the total investment required for your immigration goals.

Employment-based immigration cases can be complex and nuanced. Having effective legal assistance can be crucial in your efforts to find the right path to success. We have considerable experience with work visas and other employment immigration solutions. Put our knowledge and skills in your corner as you pursue your employment immigration goals. You can get a free consultation with us for personalized guidance. Schedule one today by calling 301-614-0811 or emailing us.

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