There are four primary strategies used by those hoping to legally enter the United States. Some people have family members living in the country already. They may qualify for family-based immigration. Some people have to flee the country where they live due to political instability, persecution, or natural disasters. Such individuals may qualify for humanitarian immigration programs that extend asylum or refugee status to those who cannot safely return home.
Those pursuing an education at domestic schools can qualify for student visas. Professionals can also potentially obtain work-based visas. Those who have established themselves in a variety of different careers may be eligible for immigration opportunities.
What types of careers may make people eligible for visas as they work jobs in the United States?
Highly-educated professionals
Skilled and highly-educated individuals in a variety of sectors may qualify for immigration opportunities. Scientists, engineers, architects and physicians are among those who may receive priority consideration for special visas because of the skills and education they have. There are specialty immigration programs that allow physicians to secure green cards if they enter the country and provide medical services in underserved communities. There are also special immigration categories for artists and entertainers, as well as professional athletes.
Those who have existing positions
Workers don’t necessarily need to have specialized degrees to qualify for employment-based immigration opportunities. Existing employees of businesses expanding into the United States can qualify for visas. So can executives or managers at businesses with a presence domestically as well as abroad. Companies can pursue specialized visas when transferring existing employees from an international location to a domestic facility in the United States.
Aspiring business owners
There are immigrant investor programs that allow those hoping to start businesses in the United States to obtain visas. Such programs typically require a minimum amount of invested capital and a certain number of jobs created by the new business. Startups and even franchises could make potential investors eligible for immigration opportunities.
Professionals can use their current positions, their desire for career growth and/or their capital as a means of obtaining an employment-based visa. Learning more about different visa programs can potentially help professionals turn their career success into an immigration opportunity.