To apply for an employment-based green card, key documents include a valid job offer letter from a U.S. employer, Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) filed by the employer, and proof of the applicant's qualifications such as education transcripts and work experience letters. Applicants must also submit Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) if they are already in the United States, along with a medical examination report and proof of lawful entry. Supporting documents such as birth certificates, valid passports, and evidence of continuous employment may also be required to strengthen the application.
What Documents are Necessary for an Employment-Based Green Card?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Labor Certification (PERM) | The Labor Certification (PERM) is a mandatory document demonstrating that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the offered position, ensuring the foreign worker's employment does not negatively impact the job market. It includes detailed recruitment efforts, job advertisements, and proof of adherence to Department of Labor guidelines, serving as a crucial step in the employment-based green card application process. |
| 2 | Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) | Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, is a crucial document in the employment-based green card process that verifies the employer's ability to pay the offered wage and the employee's qualifications for the job. Essential supporting documents include a certified labor certification (if required), employer's financial statements, the employee's educational credentials, and proof of relevant work experience. |
| 3 | Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) | Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) requires essential documents such as a completed application form, a copy of the approved Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker), proof of lawful entry into the United States, medical examination results (Form I-693), and evidence of employment eligibility including recent pay stubs and an employment verification letter. Additional required documents may include a passport, birth certificate, and any prior immigration or criminal records to support eligibility for permanent residency under the employment-based category. |
| 4 | Employment Offer Letter | An employment offer letter is a crucial document for an employment-based green card application as it confirms the job position, salary, and terms of employment, demonstrating eligibility for the requested visa category. This letter, issued by the sponsoring employer, must be clear, detailed, and formally signed to satisfy USCIS requirements for validating the permanent job offer. |
| 5 | Job Description | A detailed job description for an employment-based green card must include the specific duties, skills, educational requirements, and experience essential for the position to demonstrate eligibility under the intended employment category. This document is crucial for the labor certification process, supporting the employer's case that the job meets Department of Labor standards and justifies the foreign worker's qualifications. |
| 6 | Employer Support Letter | An Employer Support Letter is a critical document for an employment-based green card application, confirming the job offer and detailing the applicant's role, salary, and qualifications. It must be official, signed by the employer, and explicitly state the employer's commitment to sponsor the green card process. |
| 7 | Proof of Employer’s Financial Ability (Tax Returns, Annual Reports, Audited Financial Statements) | Proof of the employer's financial ability is critical for an employment-based green card application and typically includes tax returns, annual reports, and audited financial statements. These documents verify the employer's capacity to pay the offered wage and demonstrate financial stability throughout the green card process. |
| 8 | Employee Resume/CV | An employee resume or CV is a critical document for an employment-based green card application, detailing work experience, educational background, and relevant skills that demonstrate eligibility for the specific visa category. Accurate and comprehensive resumes support the labor certification process and help USCIS assess qualifications against job requirements. |
| 9 | Academic Transcripts and Diplomas | Academic transcripts and diplomas are essential documents for an employment-based green card application, as they provide verified proof of the applicant's educational qualifications required for the job position. Submitting official transcripts and certified copies of diplomas ensures USCIS can accurately assess the applicant's eligibility under the employment-based immigration category. |
| 10 | Professional Licenses and Certifications | Professional licenses and certifications are essential documents for an employment-based green card application, as they validate the applicant's qualifications and eligibility to work in specialized professions within the United States. Employers and USCIS require certified copies of these credentials to verify that the applicant meets the professional standards and regulatory requirements of the intended employment field. |
| 11 | Evidence of Work Experience (Reference Letters) | Evidence of work experience for an employment-based green card primarily includes detailed reference letters from previous employers, highlighting job titles, duties, dates of employment, and the applicant's skills and accomplishments. These letters must be on official company letterhead, signed by supervisors or authorized personnel, and provide consistent information supporting the applicant's qualifications and eligibility for the visa category. |
| 12 | Passport Biographic Page Copy | A clear, legible copy of the passport biographic page is essential for an employment-based green card application as it verifies your identity and citizenship status. This document must include your full name, date of birth, passport number, and expiration date to ensure compliance with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services requirements. |
| 13 | Birth Certificate | A birth certificate is a critical document for an employment-based green card application, serving as primary evidence of identity and citizenship. It must be an official, government-issued copy with a certified English translation if not in English to verify the applicant's name, date of birth, and place of birth. |
| 14 | Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) | Form I-94, the Arrival/Departure Record, is a crucial document for an employment-based green card application as it verifies lawful entry into the United States and tracks the applicant's status and duration of stay. USCIS requires a copy of the most recent Form I-94 to confirm eligibility and ensure compliance with immigration laws during the green card adjudication process. |
| 15 | Pay Stubs | Pay stubs are essential documents for an employment-based green card application as they verify consistent income and employment status. USCIS requires recent pay stubs, typically covering a 3 to 6-month period, to demonstrate the petitioner's ability to pay the offered wage. |
| 16 | W-2 Forms or Tax Documents | W-2 forms and other tax documents are essential for verifying consistent employment income and tax compliance during the employment-based green card application process. These documents provide critical evidence of lawful employment, salary history, and withholding taxes, supporting the applicant's eligibility and financial stability. |
| 17 | Government-Issued Photo Identification | Government-issued photo identification, such as a valid passport or state-issued driver's license, is essential for verifying identity during the employment-based green card application process. These documents must be current and accurate to meet U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requirements for background checks and eligibility verification. |
| 18 | Marriage Certificate (if applicable) | A marriage certificate is a crucial document for an employment-based green card application when the applicant's spouse is included as a dependent or derivative beneficiary. This certificate must be an official, government-issued document proving the legal marital relationship, which supports eligibility for family-based immigration benefits tied to the employment-based petition. |
| 19 | Form G-325A (Biographic Information, if required) | Form G-325A (Biographic Information) may be required as part of the employment-based green card application to provide detailed personal background data, including employment history, addresses, and physical characteristics. This form helps USCIS verify the applicant's identity and employment eligibility, ensuring the accuracy of the application process. |
| 20 | Medical Examination Report (Form I-693) | The Medical Examination Report (Form I-693) is a critical document required for an employment-based green card application, confirming the applicant has undergone a comprehensive medical exam to meet U.S. health standards. This form must be completed and sealed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon to verify absence of communicable diseases and immunization compliance. |
| 21 | Proof of Legal Status in the U.S. (Visa, EAD, etc.) | Proof of legal status in the U.S. for an employment-based green card includes valid visas such as H-1B, L-1, or O-1, as well as Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) that confirm the applicant's authorized work eligibility. Consistent documentation of lawful entry and authorized stay must be submitted to USCIS to validate continuous legal presence during the petition process. |
| 22 | Previous Immigration Documents (such as prior petitions or approvals) | Previous immigration documents crucial for an employment-based green card include approved Form I-140 petitions, prior labor certification approvals (PERM), and any previously issued work permits (EADs). These documents establish eligibility history and support the employment-based application by demonstrating legal work authorization and approved immigration sponsorship. |
| 23 | Two Passport-Style Photographs | Two passport-style photographs are required for an employment-based green card application, meeting U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) specifications, including a 2x2 inch size, white background, and recent capture within the last six months. Properly submitted photographs ensure compliance with immigration regulations and help avoid delays in processing the Form I-485 adjustment of status or Form I-140 immigrant petition. |
Overview of Employment-Based Green Card Applications
An employment-based green card application requires several key documents to demonstrate eligibility and support the petition. Common documents include Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker), evidence of the job offer, labor certification, and proof of the applicant's qualifications. Employers and applicants must also submit supporting materials such as pay stubs, tax returns, and identification documents to complete the process.
Personal Identification Documents
Personal identification documents are essential for processing an employment-based green card application. These documents verify the applicant's identity and legal status.
Commonly required identification includes a valid passport and birth certificate. Other documents may include national identity cards and previous immigration records.
Proof of Lawful U.S. Entry and Status
Proof of lawful U.S. entry and status is a critical requirement for an employment-based green card application. This documentation verifies that the applicant has been admitted or paroled into the United States under legal conditions.
- Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record - This form provides evidence of lawful entry and details the date and class of admission into the U.S.
- Valid Passport with U.S. Visa - A valid passport with an appropriate visa demonstrates authorized entry into the country.
- USCIS Approval Notices - Notices such as Form I-797 confirm lawful status extensions or changes while in the U.S.
Submitting accurate proof of lawful entry and status ensures compliance with immigration regulations and strengthens the green card application process.
Labor Certification (PERM) Documentation
Labor Certification (PERM) is a critical document required for an employment-based green card application. This certification verifies that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the offered position and that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact local wages or working conditions.
You must provide a detailed job description, evidence of recruitment efforts, and a prevailing wage determination issued by the Department of Labor. The recruitment documentation includes ads, job orders, and resumes received that demonstrate good faith efforts to hire U.S. workers. Properly compiling and submitting this paperwork ensures compliance with federal regulations and speeds up the green card process.
Employer’s Sponsorship and Job Offer Letters
An employment-based green card requires critical documentation, prominently including the employer's sponsorship, which confirms the employer's commitment to hire the applicant. The job offer letter is a vital part of this sponsorship, detailing the job position, salary, and employment terms. These documents establish the legitimacy of the employment opportunity and support the petition filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Educational and Professional Qualification Records
Educational and professional qualification records are critical when applying for an employment-based green card. These documents verify your academic achievements and career experience.
Your diploma, transcripts, professional licenses, and certifications help demonstrate your eligibility for the specific employment category. Accurate and complete records support the approval of your green card application.
Employment Verification Letters
What documents are necessary for an employment-based green card? Employment verification letters play a crucial role in this process by confirming your work history and job responsibilities. These letters must be detailed, on company letterhead, and signed by an authorized representative to meet USCIS requirements.
Financial Evidence and Ability to Pay (Employer)
| Document Type | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Form I-140 Petition | Employer-submitted petition demonstrating the job offer and immigrant classification. | Establishes eligibility for employment-based green card. |
| Employer's Tax Returns | Copies of recent federal tax returns (usually 3 years). | Provides proof of the employer's financial stability and ability to pay the offered wage. |
| Annual Reports | Company annual reports or financial statements. | Supports evidence of ongoing financial strength and capacity to pay. |
| W-2 Wage Reports | Employer's W-2 forms showing employee wage payments. | Verifies consistent payment of salary to current employees. |
| Bank Statements | Recent employer bank statements. | Demonstrates available funds to meet wage obligations. |
| Employment Offer Letter | Official letter specifying job title, salary, and employment terms. | Confirms job offer details and wages offered. |
| Payroll Records | Documentation of payroll disbursements. | Provides proof of employer's ongoing financial commitment. |
| Ability to Pay Statement | A written statement from the employer affirming capability to pay the offered wage. | Supports credibility of the employer's financial evidence. |
| Evidence of Business Activity | Contracts, invoices, or other proof of ongoing business operations. | Establishes sustainable business practices backing financial claims. |
Medical Examination and Vaccination Records
Medical examination and vaccination records are essential documents for an employment-based green card application. Your health status ensures compliance with U.S. immigration health requirements.
- Completed Medical Examination - Conducted by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon to confirm the absence of communicable diseases and overall physical and mental fitness.
- Vaccination Records - Must prove that you have received all required vaccines according to U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines.
- Form I-693 - The official report of the medical examination and vaccination results submitted confidentially to USCIS as part of the green card process.
What Documents are Necessary for an Employment-Based Green Card? Infographic
