Trusted Employment-Based Immigration Attorney in Dallas, TX
Dallas is one of the most diverse cities in the U.S. It’s home to thriving businesses that employ people from many different cultures and countries. Employers and employees may face complicated issues related to employment-based immigration laws. The legalese and long process, which spans many federal agencies, can be complex and confusing. You need a Dallas employment-based immigration lawyer that you can trust.
Serrano Law Firm PLLC has nearly 20 years of experience with employment-based immigration. We serve the Dallas area, as well as Houston and the surrounding areas. Immigration has become a central issue in Texas, and our attorney gets results. Our success stories speak for themselves. Former clients say we were professional and friendly during their employment-based immigration case. We advocate and guide you through the process, supporting you until we reach an optimal outcome.
Employment-Based Immigration in Dallas
Employers across Dallas County depend on immigrants for their workforce. The American Immigration Council found that in 2022, Dallas’s immigrant population accounted for 28.4% of labor employees. According to the United States Department of State, about 140,000 employment-based visas are granted each year. You can hire an employment-based immigration lawyer to help you with the process.
Employment-Based Immigration Categories
The United States Code, Title 8, Chapter 12, Section 1153, Allocation of Immigrant Visas, highlights the job categories that qualify for permanent residency. A Dallas employment-based immigration attorney can help you determine which one applies to you:
- EB-1. Professors or researchers with extra abilities in certain areas, like business, science, or education.
- EB-2. An advanced degree with a job offer from an employer in the United States.
- EB-3. A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with two years of experience in the field.
- EB-4. A special category for religious or international organization employees. This category also includes those who have assisted the U.S. government in some way.
Steps to Get Employment-Based Permanent Residency in Dallas
There are certain steps to follow to get employment-based permanent residency in Dallas. To obtain permanent residency within the U.S. based on your job:
- You must collaborate with your employer and be sponsored by them. An employer is required for an employment-based immigration case.
- Your employer files a Labor Certification Application with the Department of Labor. This declares that there isn’t a qualified U.S. worker who can be hired for the position.
- Once you are approved and receive the Labor Certification, the employer files an Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- USCIS approves the petition, and the Department of State gives you an Immigrant Visa Number. If you’re already living in the U.S., you can apply for Permanent Resident status with this number.
Whether you’re an employer or an employee, you don’t want the Department of Labor to deny your application. Preparing the paperwork correctly and following the steps is essential for success.
Since there are several complex steps and different government agencies involved, you may not want to handle your employment-based immigration case alone. You should have an advocate by your side, working on your behalf. Having someone who has gone through the process before can be a comfort and increase your chances of success.
FAQs
How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Cost in Texas?
The cost for an immigration lawyer greatly depends on your case. Some can be straightforward with filing and application preparation. Others may involve more steps and more time spent developing strategies to bolster your case. There are also government fees for processing each request. You should consult with an attorney to discuss how they accept payments, whether it’s a flat fee or an hourly rate.
Can Undocumented Immigrants Get a Job in Texas?
With Texas’s proximity to Mexico, many undocumented immigrants have jobs across the state, but it’s illegal. Employers can be fined for hiring undocumented people. An employee without a work permit can be deported. If you fall under one of the categories for an employment-based visa, which can lead to a green card and permanent residency, it’s worth pursuing with the help of an experienced immigration law attorney.
Can an Employment-Based Green Card Be Revoked in Dallas?
Yes, an employment-based green card can be revoked, but only by the federal government. An employer can’t cancel your green card. They can report any fraud or wrongdoing. This would trigger an investigation. If you lied on your application, you may have to attend a court hearing and present your case in front of a federal judge, who decides whether you can keep your green card and stay in the U.S. or not.
How Long Does an Employment-Based Green Card Remain Valid?
An employment-based green card usually remains valid for 10 years. You must renew it before it expires. There is a form you can fill out for an extension, but starting the renewal process on time can save you a lot of stress. Contact your employment-based immigration attorney with any questions about renewing or any other steps you’d like to take for your immigration, for your employees, or your own family.
Can I Bring My Family to the U.S. Through an Employment-Based Visa?
Yes, you can bring your family to live in the United States with an employment-based visa. Your spouse and children under 21 years old qualify. Other relatives can’t come with you on a visa, but when you receive a green card and become a permanent resident, they can file their own family-sponsored petition with immigration.
Hire an Employment-Based Immigration Lawyer in Dallas
At Serrano Law Firm PLLC, we approach every case differently to offer a personalized plan for each person and their specific situation. Your employment-based immigration case is unique and requires the appropriate strategies. We strive to be trustworthy and compassionate throughout the lengthy process of obtaining permanent residency in the United States. Contact us today to review your case and see how we can help you reach your goals for a brighter future as a citizen.
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