For many foreign nationals working in the United States, employment-based permanent residence is an important long-term goal. While the green card process itself involves multiple legal steps, much of the success of a case depends on preparation well before filing begins.
Employees who understand what to expect—and take action early—are often better positioned to avoid delays, complications, and unexpected setbacks.
Why Early Preparation Matters
The employment-based green card process is not a single application. Depending on the category, it may involve:
- Labor certification (PERM)
- Employer-sponsored immigrant petitions
- Adjustment of status or consular processing
Each stage relies on accurate information about the employee’s background, immigration history, and professional experience. Preparing early allows potential issues to be identified and addressed before deadlines apply.
Review Your Immigration History Carefully
Before a green card case begins, employees should review their full immigration history, including:
- Prior visa types and dates of stay
- Any periods of unemployment or gaps in status
- Past extensions, changes of status, or denials
- Travel history inside and outside the United States
Even issues that seem minor can become relevant later in the process. Identifying concerns early gives employers and attorneys more flexibility in planning strategy.
Confirm That Your Job Role Supports a Green Card Case
Employment-based green cards are tied closely to the employee’s actual job duties, not just job titles. Before filing begins, employees should ensure that:
- Their job description accurately reflects what they do day to day
- Their duties align with the requirements of the selected green card category
- Any changes in role, salary, or location are reviewed in advance
Misalignment between job duties and filings is a common source of delays.
Organize Education and Employment Records
Employees are often asked to provide documentation that goes back many years. Preparing these materials early can save significant time later.
Common documents include:
- Degrees and transcripts
- Credential evaluations (if applicable)
- Prior employment letters
- Evidence of work experience matching job requirements
If documents are missing or difficult to obtain, advance preparation allows time to secure alternatives.
Maintain Valid Nonimmigrant Status
Maintaining lawful status throughout the green card process is critical. Employees should be mindful of:
- Visa expiration dates
- I-94 validity
- Travel plans during pending applications
- Changes in employer, job location, or work authorization
Unexpected status gaps can complicate or delay permanent residence filings.
Understand Timing and Expectations
Green card timelines vary widely based on:
- Visa category
- Country of birth
- Government processing times
- Annual visa availability
Employees should be prepared for a process that may take several years and should plan travel, career decisions, and personal milestones accordingly.
Coordinate With Your Employer Early
Because most employment-based green card cases are employer-sponsored, communication is essential. Employees should:
- Discuss long-term immigration goals early
- Inform HR of anticipated visa expiration timelines
- Notify the employer of material job changes
- Coordinate international travel plans
Early alignment helps prevent rushed filings or missed opportunities.
How NPZ Law Group Can Help
NPZ Law Group assists employees and employers at every stage of the employment-based green card process, including:
- Pre-filing eligibility and risk assessments
- Strategy planning based on role, experience, and timing
- PERM labor certification preparation
- Immigrant petition and adjustment filings
- Ongoing compliance and status management
Thoughtful preparation often makes the difference between a smooth process and one filled with avoidable delays.
Final Takeaway
Preparing for a green card is not just about filing paperwork—it is about planning ahead. Employees who take time to understand their role, maintain status, and organize records are better positioned for long-term success.
If you are considering an employment-based green card, early guidance can help ensure the process starts on the right footing.
Contact Information
If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information