Green Card Options for Certain International Broadcasters

1. What options are available for international broadcasters to obtain a Green Card?


International broadcasters can obtain a Green Card through the EB-1 priority worker program, the O-1 visa for individuals with extraordinary ability, the EB-2 visa with a labor certification, the H-1B visa for professionals in specialty occupations, or the L-1 visa for intracompany transferees.

2. What requirements must be met by international broadcasters in order to obtain a Green Card?


In order to obtain a Green Card, international broadcasters must:

1. Be a citizen or national of a foreign country;
2. Have a valid passport issued by their country of origin;
3. Have an offer of employment from a US-based employer, who will provide them with a one-year contract or an intention to stay in the US for at least one year;
4. Have the necessary qualifications and experience to perform the job;
5. Show that they have sufficient funds to support themselves and any accompanying family members; and
6. Demonstrate that they will not be a burden to the US government.

3. Can international broadcasters apply for a Green Card if they are already in the US?


Yes, international broadcasters who are already in the US can apply for a US green card. However, eligibility requirements vary depending on the type of green card they are applying for.

4. Is there a limit on the number of Green Cards available to international broadcasters?


Yes, there is a limit on the number of Green Cards available to international broadcasters. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) sets an annual limit of 10,000 Green Cards for international broadcasters, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

5. What type of Green Card is available to international broadcasters?


International broadcasters can apply for an O-1 nonimmigrant visa which is a Green Card.

6. Which countries are eligible for Green Card options for international broadcasters?


The United States offers two green card options for international broadcasters: the EB-1 and EB-2 visas. The EB-1 visa is available to “Persons of Extraordinary Ability” or “Outstanding Professors and Researchers” in television broadcasting. The EB-2 visa is available to professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability in television broadcasting. Both of these visas are available to citizens of any country.

7. How much does it cost to apply for a Green Card?


The cost to apply for a Green Card varies depending on the type of Green Card and the applicant’s country of origin. Generally, the filing fee for Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) is $1,140 for those 14 and older, and $750 for those under 14 years old. Additionally, there may be biometrics fees required. The total cost to apply for a Green Card can be up to $1,500 or more.

8. How long does it take to obtain a Green Card?


The amount of time it takes to obtain a Green Card varies depending on an individual’s particular situation. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few months to several years.

9. Is there a priority system for Green Card applications from international broadcasters?


No. According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the processing time for all Green Card applications, including those from international broadcasters, are determined by the USCIS office in charge of the case.

10. Are there any restrictions on the activities that international broadcasters can pursue with a Green Card?


Yes, there are a number of restrictions on the activities that international broadcasters can pursue with a Green Card. In general, broadcasters are limited to providing broadcasting services in the United States, as well as activities related to the production of programming for broadcast. Additionally, any activities that involve entering contracts with US companies, or providing services for US companies, must be approved by the Federal Communications Commission before they can be undertaken by a broadcaster with a Green Card.

11. Are there any other visa options available for international broadcasters?


Yes, depending on the country and their relationship with the U.S., some international broadcasters may be eligible for other types of visas, such as the E-1 Treaty Trader or the E-2 Treaty Investor visas. Additionally, some broadcasters may be eligible for the H-1B visa for specialty occupations. Finally, most countries have cultural exchange visitor programs which may provide visa opportunities for international broadcasters.

12. Are there any ways to expedite the application process for a Green Card for international broadcasters?


Unfortunately, there is no expedited process for Green Card applications for international broadcasters. The process will take as long as it takes and is subject to the approval of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office. Generally, the applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and applicants should ensure that all forms are completed accurately and that all required documents are included in the submission.

13. Are there any restrictions on the length of time that an international broadcaster can stay in the US with a Green Card?


No, there are no restrictions on the length of time that an international broadcaster can stay in the US with a Green Card. The Green Card grants them permanent residency and they can stay indefinitely as long as they meet the requirements for renewal.

14. How often must an international broadcaster renew their Green Card?


International broadcasters must renew their Green Card every 10 years.

15. Are there any additional requirements for an international broadcaster to receive a Green Card other than those listed in the application form?


No, there are no additional requirements for an international broadcaster to receive a Green Card other than those listed in the application form.

16. Are there any additional fees associated with obtaining a Green Card for an international broadcaster?


Yes, there may be additional fees associated with obtaining a Green Card for an international broadcaster, depending on the individual’s situation. In general, there are fees for filing the application, as well as biometric fees associated with the background check. Additionally, international broadcasters may need to pay attorney or advisor fees to help with the application process.

17. Is there any special assistance available for international broadcasters looking to obtain a Green Card?


Yes, there are several organizations that offer assistance for international broadcasters looking to obtain a Green Card. The International Broadcasters Association (IBA) has a program that provides free legal advice and other resources for members of the media. Additionally, the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) provides an immigration referral service that can help international broadcasters understand the process and determine the best path forward. Additionally, many law firms specialize in immigration law and may be able to provide assistance.

18. Can an international broadcaster bring family members with them on their Green Card application?


No, family members cannot be included on an international broadcaster’s Green Card application. The application is for the individual only, and does not include any dependents.

19. Can an international broadcaster apply for permanent residency in the US with their Green Card application?


Yes, an international broadcaster can apply for permanent residency in the US with their Green Card application. However, the chances of success may vary depending on their individual situation and qualifications.

20. Are there any restrictions on the type of employment that an international broadcaster can pursue with a Green Card?


Yes. International broadcasters with Green Cards are legally allowed to work in the United States, but they may not engage in certain types of employment. Specifically, they may not work as an independent contractor, become self-employed, or engage in certain types of employment that would require a special visa or authorization. Examples of such jobs include medical and legal professions, teaching, journalism, and certain specialized areas of entertainment.