Employment-based immigration support for workers and employers
Considering an employment-based immigration petition? Peoples Immigrant Resource Center can help you understand the process, organize supporting documents, and prepare and file an appropriate petition for an eligible worker or petitioning employer. We begin by reviewing the proposed employment, qualifications, and immigration history.
Book a free consultation to discuss your situation and the services available for your case. Assistance is available in English and Spanish through our South Gate and Highland offices.
Help at any stage of the process
Whether you are exploring options, gathering employer documents, already have a pending petition, or received a USCIS notice, you can reach out for assistance. Bring copies of prior filings and any notices with deadlines so we can discuss your next step.
Two different employment-based pathways
Permanent residence
Employment-based immigrant petitions can be part of the process toward a green card. Many worker categories use Form I-140. A separate permanent-residence application and other eligibility requirements still apply.
Temporary employment
Temporary worker classifications permit qualifying employment for a limited period under specific conditions. Many require an employer petition using Form I-129. They are not the same as an employment-based green card or a general work permit.
Understanding immigrant worker categories
Common categories include EB-1 for certain priority workers, EB-2 for qualifying advanced-degree professionals or people with exceptional ability, and EB-3 for qualifying skilled workers, professionals, and other workers. Each has distinct evidence and eligibility requirements.
Many cases require employer sponsorship and, where applicable, Department of Labor certification before the immigrant petition. Certain categories allow self-petitioning, such as EB-1 extraordinary ability and qualifying EB-2 national interest waiver requests. Having a degree, experience, or job offer alone does not establish eligibility.
A petition is only one part of the process
An approved I-140 does not, by itself, grant a green card, immigration status, or permission to work. Visa availability and eligibility for adjustment of status or consular processing must also be reviewed. Do not assume a pending petition protects your current status or authorizes employment.
How we can help
Review the proposed pathway
We can review your goals, employment details, qualifications, and immigration records to explain the petition requirements and assistance appropriate for your circumstances.
Prepare supporting evidence
We can help identify and organize relevant education, experience, employer, and immigration documents. The evidence needed depends on the petition category.
Prepare and file a petition
For an eligible case within the agreed scope of services, we can help prepare and file the appropriate petition with the required petitioner and supporting documentation.
Review pending-case next steps
If a case is already underway, we can review available filings and notices and discuss assistance with the next stage. Tell us promptly about requests for evidence or other deadlines.
What happens after an immigrant petition?
The next step may be adjustment of status in the United States or immigrant visa processing through a U.S. embassy or consulate. The appropriate route depends on the individual’s circumstances and eligibility.
Filing and approval timing also depend on visa availability. We can help review the applicable Visa Bulletin and USCIS filing guidance. Not every applicant can file a green card application at the same time as the petition, and petition approval does not guarantee approval of a later application.
What to bring to your consultation
Bring the documents you already have. We will discuss any additional records needed for your situation.
- Passport, visa, I-94, and current immigration documents, if applicable.
- Résumé, diplomas, transcripts, licenses, and evidence of relevant work experience.
- Job offer or proposed job description, including duties and work location, if available.
- Relevant employer information and any labor certification records already available.
- Copies of earlier petitions, receipt or approval notices, and requests or decisions from immigration agencies.
- Important dates, including status expiration, planned employment start, and response deadlines.
Do not send sensitive identity or business records through a general website inquiry. Ask us how to provide documents for review.
Common questions
Do I need an employer to sponsor me?
Many employment-based categories require a qualifying employer or other petitioner. Some immigrant categories allow self-petitioning. We can review which requirements apply; a job offer does not automatically create eligibility.
Is this the same as applying for a work permit?
No. An employment-based petition and Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, serve different purposes. Your ability to work depends on your status or other valid authorization—not simply on having a petition filed.
Can you help if my employer or another provider already started the case?
Yes, you can contact us at any stage. We can review the documents available and discuss what assistance we can provide. Any new work and responsibilities will be clarified before proceeding.
How long will the process take?
Timing varies by category, required labor steps, agency processing, and visa availability. We cannot guarantee a decision date or outcome. We can explain the stages relevant to your case.
Can my family be included?
Certain spouses and children may qualify for related immigration benefits, but eligibility, applications, and work authorization rules must be reviewed separately. Benefits are not automatic.
Is the consultation free?
Yes. The initial consultation is free. Before you proceed, we will explain the proposed services, service fees, and applicable government fees separately.
Discuss your employment-based immigration options
Whether you are a worker exploring a pathway or an employer preparing to petition, contact us to discuss your next step. Help is available before you begin or while your case is already in progress.
Official information and resources
USCIS: Form I-140
USCIS: Form I-129
Department of State: Employment-based immigrant visas
Department of State: Visa Bulletin
This page provides general information, not advice about an individual case. Eligibility, procedures, and fees can change. Services depend on the circumstances of your case; no approval or processing time is guaranteed.