1. What are the employment-based green card requirements in Oklahoma?

The requirements for employment-based green cards in Oklahoma are the same as in any other state in the US, and include:

1. Having a permanent offer of employment from an employer in the US

2. Having an approved Labor Certification from the US Department of Labor

3. Meeting the qualifications for the job, such as having relevant experience, education, or specialized skills

4. Being sponsored by either an employer or a family member who is a US citizen or lawful permanent resident.

5. Submitting documentation to support their application, which may include evidence of financial resources, medical examinations, and criminal background checks.

2. How can someone in Oklahoma apply for an employment-based green card?

To apply for an employment-based green card in Oklahoma, an individual must first find an employer who is willing to sponsor them. The employer must then file a Petition for Alien Worker (Form I-140) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once the petition is approved, the applicant must file an immigrant visa application (Form I-485) and attend an interview at the USCIS office in Oklahoma. The applicant will then receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) card, allowing them to live and work in the U.S. permanently.

3. Are there any restrictions on workers from Oklahoma obtaining employment-based green cards?

Yes, there are restrictions on workers from Oklahoma obtaining employment-based green cards. For example, the total number of employment-based immigrant visas issued to applicants from Oklahoma is limited to 7% of the total number of such visas available in a given year. Additionally, certain categories of employment-based immigrant visas may not be available to Oklahoma applicants at all.

4. How long does it usually take to receive an employment-based green card in Oklahoma?

It typically takes between 6 to 8 months to receive an employment-based green card in Oklahoma. However, the processing time can vary depending on the type of visa and the specific circumstances of the application. Additionally, the processing time can be longer due to backlogs and other delays.

5. Is there a backlog for employment-based green cards in Oklahoma?

Yes, there is a backlog for employment-based green cards in Oklahoma. According to the U.S. Department of State’s Visa Bulletin, as of April 2021, the cutoff date for employment-based cases filed in the Oklahoma City, OK area is January 15, 2015.

6. How does an employer in Oklahoma sponsor a foreign national for an employment-based green card?

An employer in Oklahoma can sponsor a foreign national for an employment-based green card by filing a Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form requires information about the foreign national and the employer, including job duties, salary, and proof of qualified experience. The employer must also file a Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with USCIS for the foreign national. After the application is approved, the foreign national will receive their green card and be able to legally work in the U.S.

7. Are there any additional considerations when applying for an employment-based green card in Oklahoma?

Yes, there may be some additional considerations when applying for an employment-based green card in Oklahoma. Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, they may need to provide additional documentation or take part in an interview. Additionally, the process may take longer due to the smaller number of USCIS offices in the state. Finally, applicants should be aware that Oklahoma is within the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, which can affect certain aspects of the application process.

8. Is it possible to become a permanent resident through an employment-based green card in Oklahoma?

Yes, it is possible to become a permanent resident through an employment-based green card in Oklahoma. In order to qualify for an employment-based green card, the applicant must have a job offer from a U.S. employer and the employer must sponsor the applicant’s green card application. The employer must also demonstrate that there are no qualified U.S. workers available and willing to do the job that the foreign worker is being hired to do.

9. What is the process for renewing an employment-based green card in Oklahoma?

In order to renew an employment-based green card in Oklahoma, the individual must first fill out Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This form must be accompanied by a copy of the original green card, two passport photos, and the relevant fee. The individual must then mail their application to the USCIS Oklahoma Lockbox for processing. After the application is approved, the individual will receive their renewed green card in the mail.

10. What are the benefits of having an employment-based green card in Oklahoma?

The benefits of having an employment-based green card in Oklahoma include the ability to live and work permanently in the United States, travel freely in and out of the US, obtain a Social Security number and apply for a driver’s license, apply for federal benefits such as Social Security and Medicare, bring family members to the US, and eventually apply for US citizenship. Additionally, those with an employment-based green card may receive certain tax benefits, such as being able to deduct certain business expenses on their taxes.

11. Can an employee in Oklahoma with an employment-based green card change jobs?

Yes, an employee in Oklahoma with an employment-based green card can change jobs. However, they must follow certain procedures and get approval from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The employee must submit a Form I-485 to adjust their status to permanent residence. In addition, the new employer must file a Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker.

12. How does a family member of a worker with an employment-based green card in Oklahoma obtain a visa?

A family member of a worker with an employment-based green card in Oklahoma can obtain a visa by filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The applicant must also submit the requisite documents to prove their relationship to the green card holder, as well as pay the filing fee for Form I-485. Depending on the applicant’s country of origin, they may need to apply for an immigrant visa or a nonimmigrant visa to enter the United States. In either case, the applicant will need to submit an online visa application and attend an in-person interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate closest to their place of residence.

13. Can an employee with an employment-based green card in Oklahoma be fired from their job?

Yes, an employee with an employment-based green card in Oklahoma can be fired from their job. Just like any other employee, they are subject to the same employment laws and regulations. If an employer believes that an employee is not meeting the job requirements, or is engaged in misconduct, they may be terminated.

14. Can an employee with an employment-based green card in Oklahoma change employers while maintaining their current visa status?

Yes, an employee with an employment-based green card in Oklahoma can change employers while maintaining their current visa status. The employee must obtain an approved I-140 petition from their new employer, and the new employer must sponsor the employee for a new green card. The employee may also need to file an I-485 Adjustment of Status application to update their current visa status.

15. How long are employment-based green cards valid for in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, employment-based green cards are valid for 10 years.

16. Does Oklahoma have any special requirements for employers sponsoring foreign nationals for employment-based green cards?

Yes, certain employers in Oklahoma must meet additional requirements when sponsoring foreign nationals for employment-based green cards. These requirements vary by the type of employer, but may include meeting certain wage levels, providing minimum working conditions, or demonstrating a commitment to hiring US workers. Additionally, employers may be subject to additional background checks and labor market tests.

17. Are there any waiting periods associated with obtaining an employment-based green card in Oklahoma?

Yes, there are waiting periods associated with obtaining an employment-based green card in Oklahoma. The waiting period varies depending on the applicant’s country of origin and the type of visa they are applying for. Generally speaking, it can range from 2-5 years or even longer for some applicants.

18. What is the impact of naturalization on workers with an employment-based green card in Oklahoma?

The impact of naturalization on workers with an employment-based green card in Oklahoma depends on their individual situation. Generally speaking, naturalization can positively affect workers by allowing them to become U.S. citizens and apply for certain government benefits, such as voting rights, the right to serve on juries, and access to federal jobs that require U.S. citizenship. Naturalization also eliminates the need to renew a green card and provides more stability for the worker and their family. Additionally, naturalization can make it easier to bring family members from abroad to the United States.

19. Are there any restrictions on the types of jobs that employees with an employment-based green card in Oklahoma can accept?

Yes, there are restrictions on the types of jobs that employees with an employment-based green card in Oklahoma can accept. Employees may not accept jobs that are beyond their initial job description or in a field that is unrelated to the one on their green card application. Additionally, employees must work for the employer who sponsored them for the green card and must continue to work in the same job for at least five years or until the employer terminates their employment.

20. What are the benefits of permanent residency through an employment-based green card in Oklahoma?

The benefits of permanent residency through an employment-based green card in Oklahoma include:

1. The ability to work and live in the U.S. without restrictions on the number of hours you can work, or the type of work you can do.

2. Access to certain public benefits, such as Social Security and Medicare, that are available to citizens and legal permanent residents.

3. The ability to apply for a U.S. passport and travel freely outside the country, with some restrictions.

4. The ability to sponsor family members for a green card, including your spouse and unmarried children under 21 years of age.

5. The ability to live in Oklahoma without restrictions, such as an annual renewal process or having to check in with immigration officials periodically.

6. The ability to apply for U.S. citizenship after five years of permanent residency, if certain eligibility criteria are met.

7. Access to certain employment-based green card programs that are not available to other immigrants, such as programs for entrepreneurs or those with advanced degrees.