COMPUTER PROFESSIONALS

There are several ways for foreign computer professionals to work and obtain permanent resident status in the U.S. The most common way is for an employer to sponsor the foreign computer professional for a work visa and a green card through PERM labor certification.

This process can be done as EB-2 or EB-3. If the position advertised requires a Master degree or Bachelor's degree plus 5 years progressive work experience, it belongs to EB-2 preference. If the position advertised requires Bachelor's degree or some education with corresponding experience, it belongs to EB-3 preference.

Other ways to obtain a green card would be through:

Applicants under EB-1 may self-apply for a green card (does not require a job offer or an employer's sponsorship) and must be able to provide evidence that he/she belongs to the top in his/her field.

An applicant that has a permanent job with a number of publications relating to his/her field, may be sponsored by an employer who would petition for the foreign computer professional and submit an I-140 form.

This category does not require employer sponsorship. A computer professional who is involved in research projects concerning "national" interests and have publications under his/her name may apply for a green card. However, applying under EB-2 is difficult, unless the applicant has gained notoriety and is a known as an authority in his/her field.