Selfsponsorship for a Green Card

Individuals of extraordinary ability in the arts or sciences can get a "green card" based upon their accomplishments in their field. Others may qualify for a national interest waiver if they can establish that their work is will greatly benefit the United States. In either case, no particular employer has to sponsor the person.

Other than the "self sponsoring" situation, employment-based immigration requires that the Department of Labor certify that no qualified U.S. workers are available to fill the position offered to the foreign national and that hiring the foreign national in that position will not negatively impact the wages and working conditions of similarly situated U.S. workers. Labor certifications are used to sponsor professional with degrees, skilled workers such as chefs or even lower skilled workers such as child care providers.

You are eligible to apply for a green card if you are: