Q&A

Do you have to leave the country to get your green card?

Do you have to leave the country to get your green card?

Unless you already have a visa or immigration status that allows you to remain in the U.S. legally, you must (as a preference beneficiary whose Priority Date isn’t current) leave the U.S. and wait to apply for your green card.

Can a green card be filed with another employer?

Yes, another employer can file a green card application and begin the PERM process as an offer of future employment. It’s very important, however, to have the intention to actually work for this company once you have obtained the green card.

How to convince an employer to sponsor green card?

At the same time, an employee has the option to search for a company that would be ready to sponsor the green card. Only those with green card are allowed to handle projects that require security clearance.

How long do you have to stay employed after getting a green card?

Many immigration practitioners tend to suggest that remaining in the sponsored position for six-to-twelve months following the issuance of the green card likely is sufficient to evidence that the sponsored employee / beneficiary acted in good faith. This is a general guideline, though, not a set rule. The inquiry from the USCIS is case-specific.

Can a foreign national get a green card?

The foreign national must intend to work in that position for an indefinite period upon approval of the green card. While there is no minimum duration that the individual must remain in that position, moving to a different employer shortly after the green card issuance could lead to future immigration problems related to the individual’s intent.

Can a green card holder leave the US?

As lawful permanent residents, green card holders have the right to leave the United States and return at will, provided that they don’t remain outside the country for more than a year. However, the rules are somewhat different for individuals whose green card applications are still pending.

Can a foreign national quit his job after receiving a green card?

U.S. immigration law does not establish a particular length of time for which the foreign national must continue working with the employer-sponsor after receiving the green card. Assuming the employment relation is ” at will ,” the employer can fire or lay off the employee at any time; and the employee is free to quit at any time.

Can a green card holder change their employer?

As with a number of areas within immigration law, the rules regarding a change in employer following the issuance of an EB green card are fairly ambiguous. Anyone considering a job change shortly after approval of a green card may wish to consult first with an experienced immigration attorney.

How can I get a job with a green card?

The employer attests that the position will be available for the foreign national once the green card is issued, and the sponsored worker promises to work on a full-time and permanent basis in that position upon approval of the green card.