FAMILY-BASED VISAS
Approximately 250,000 immigrant visas are issued annually to spouses, children (under 21) and parents of U.S. citizens. The U.S. citizen must be over 21 to petition for a parent. There is no waiting line (quota) for these immediate relative visas.
Other family preference categories include sons and daughters (over 21) of U.S. citizens, and brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens. But those in line as siblings now may wait 15 to 20 years.
Spouses and children (under 21) of permanent residents wait three or more years after filing the application for an available visa, while unmarried sons and daughters (over 21) of permanent residents wait some five years or more.
EB EXTRA-ORDINARY VISAS
The extraordinary ability (EB-1) visa is reserved for the small percentage of people who have risen to the very top of their professional field. These lucky individuals have proved extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business or athletics with ongoing national or international acclaim.
You don't need a labor certification, but you must show evidence that you'll continue to work in the United States in your field of expertise. Documentation could include:
- Letter(s) from prospective employers
- Evidence of prearranged commitments, such as contracts
- A statement detailing how you plan to continue your work while in the U.S.
You must show evidence that you've won national or international acclaim and that your achievements have been recognized in your field of expertise. Proof must include evidence of a one-time achievement (such as an internationally recognized award) or at least three of the following as set out in the code.