The EB-2 green card allows professionals with advanced degrees to live and work in the U.S. An employer or prospective employer must apply for an EB-2 on behalf of the professional.

Eligibility Requirements

The EB-2 candidate must have:

• • A job offer requiring an advanced degree from a company that has operations or subsidiaries in the U.S.
• • A U.S. master’s degree, doctorate or equivalent degree in a field that’s related to the job or a U.S. baccalaureate or equivalent degree and at least five years of work experience in the field.

Application Process

For an EB-2 visa, the U.S. employer must:

• • Show the candidate meets the eligibility requirements, such as copies of official transcripts, certified copies of the actual degree or diploma, official documentation from a university of other institution of higher education, or letters from current or prior employers.
• • Demonstrate that the candidate’s advanced degree relates to the position, such as a letter from the prospective employer describing the proposed job or documents describing the company and its work.
• • Submit labor certification. Labor certification requires a U.S. employer to prove to the U.S. Department of Labor that no minimally qualified U.S. workers are available for the position sought by the foreign employee. The process is designed to ensure that the employment, wages, and working conditions of U.S. workers employed in the same field are not adversely affected.
• • Show the U.S. employer or prospective employer has the ability to pay the offered wage.

What Happens Next?

USCIS may request more information, evidence or an interview with the EB-1C candidate. At an interview, you may be fingerprinted, photographed or asked for your signature to verify your identity or to update background and security checks. USCIS will notify you in writing of its decision.