Paths to Permanent Work Authorization in US
1. Employer-Sponsored Visas
This is one of the most common ways to obtain permanent work authorization. Companies can sponsor foreign workers for Green Cards under various employment-based categories (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, etc.). These categories are based on skills and qualifications.
Legal Note: The process of obtaining an employment-based Green Card can be lengthy and involve several stages.
2. Family-Based Immigration
U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can sponsor certain family members for Green Cards, including spouses, children, and parents.
3. Asylum and Refugee Status
Individuals granted asylum or refugee status in the U.S. have the right to work and may eventually be eligible for a Green Card.
4. Diversity Immigrant Visa Program
This annual program randomly awards (the lottery) Green Cards to a limited number of applicants from countries with low rates of immigration to the U.S.