Jun
16

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Success Stories Architect’s NIW Approved in 13 Days

Category: Architect, EB-2, Green card, Green card attorney, Green card without job offer, immigration Attorney in phoenix, Immigration attorney in Scottsdale, Immigration attorney Phoenix, Immigration lawyer Arizona, Immigration Lawyer Scottsdale, immigration lawyers phoenix, National Interest Waiver, NIW Tags: , , , , , ,

The National Interest Waiver (NIW) offers qualified individuals the opportunity to petition for a green card without the need for a job offer from an employer. In this case study, we explore the petition of our immigration law firm‘s client, a highly accomplished professional in the field of sustainable architecture.

Upon reviewing his resume, it became evident that he was an ideal candidate for the NIW. Holding a Ph.D. in arid lands resource sciences, a master’s degree in architecture, and a bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering, his academic background showcased specialized knowledge in sustainable architecture, energy conservation, and design principles. Holding an advanced degree is a requirement for obtaining an NIW.

Architect

Now, let’s examine the three prongs that must be met for USCIS to waive the normal job offer and labor certification requirements for a green card.  First, his proposed endeavor must have substantial merit and national importance. Our client’s endeavor as Senior Lecturer and Faculty Advisor in the Master of Science in Architecture Graduate Program fits the criterion perfectly.  It plays a  role in the urgent fight against climate change by shaping future professionals to lead the charge in reducing architecture’s impact on the environment.  Furthermore, his proactive approach to conducting research and disseminating knowledge beyond his university promotes sustainable practices in the field of architecture.  The university’s trust in his expertise is evident, as he was entrusted with assisting in establishing a state-of-the-art carbon-zero energy environmental research laboratory and revising the environmental and technology curriculum – both critical steps in advancing the fight against climate change.

Our client’s second endeavor as Senior Project Manager in a reputable architecture firm, with a strong focus on sustainable design, is also of substantial merit and national significance.  It has the potential to make considerable strides in reducing the carbon footprint of U.S. communities.  As a leader and advisor to a team of professionals involved in sustainable architectural projects, he plays a crucial role in ensuring adherence to sustainable practices. These projects have the potential to positively impact education and medical access for numerous communities across the United States.   His leadership and guidance in this endeavor are of paramount importance to achieving sustainable outcomes that will benefit communities for years to come.

Both of our client’s endeavors are vital to the fight against climate change, an Immediate Priority Announced by the Current United States Administration. His academic and advisory responsibilities play a crucial role in meeting the demands of science and promoting sustainable practices in the field of architecture. Supported by overwhelming evidence and numerous references from experts in the field, his work holds significant merit and national importance, which certainly helps him qualify for a National Interest Waiver.

Second, we need to demonstrate that he is well-positioned to advance his endeavors. Our client’s advanced degrees in sustainable architecture, along with over ten years of experience in the field, recognition for achievements by distinguished individuals and organizations, and relevant professional memberships and publications, all demonstrate that is well-positioned to advance his endeavors. He has spent the last decade focused on sustainable, energy-efficient design, contributing to projects like Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), High Performance Sustainable Building (HPSB) and net-zero buildings design. Moreover, he has a track record of conducting architectural design analysis and implementation through computer simulation for existing and new buildings, actively engaging in research, mentorship, interdisciplinary collaborations, current debates, and staying informed about current developments. He also contributes to the industry through conference papers and published peer-reviewed works while serving as an experienced reviewer of scholarly work and research proposals.

Last, we must show that, on balance, it would be beneficial to the United States to waive the requirements of a job offer and labor certification. Our client’s exceptional achievements in sustainable architecture have resulted in significant benefits to major industries in the U.S. and beyond. His contributions extend beyond his roles as Senior Lecturer, Faculty Advisor, and Senior Project Manager. He also dedicates himself to teaching and mentoring future leaders, conducting research, publishing, presenting, and serving as a leader in leading professional associations. Denying him a National Interest Waiver and permanent residence solely because another individual may be “minimally qualified” for his specific job would be unjustifiable.

His exceptional knowledge and skills in technology and business, particularly in design and energy conservation, have led to remarkable and documented advancements in sustainable architecture, as recognized by top academic experts and published throughout the industry. Such a level of achievement and a unique combination of skills and knowledge cannot be easily articulated in a labor certification application, where employers must state only the minimum requirements and search for a minimally qualified worker, rather than someone who has the proven ability to substantially advance an entire field forward. Based on the overwhelming evidence documenting the above, our client met the requirements for a National Interest Waiver, and his petition was approved in just 13 days.

Please note that this article does not constitute legal advice. We have simplified the law to provide general information about one National Interest Waiver case.  If you would like to determine if you qualify for the National Interest Waiver or explore the best visa or green card options for you, schedule a consultation today with an experienced immigration lawyer or contact us at the Juras Law Firm office at 480-425-2009! We look forward to talking with you and assisting you in obtaining the National Interest Waiver and green card!

Jun
8

By

Success Stories: NIW for Researcher Approved in 13 Days

Category: Employment green card, Green card, Green card attorney, Green card through employment, immigration Attorney in phoenix, Immigration attorney in Scottsdale, Immigration attorney Phoenix, Immigration lawyer Arizona, Legal permanent residency, Legal Permanent Resident Status, National Interest Waiver, Uncategorized

As an immigration attorney, I am thrilled to share an exciting success story. Recently, I had my client’s National Interest Waiver petition approved in just 13 days. This achievement not only underscores my client’s exceptional qualifications but also showcases my commitment and expertise.

In this blog post, I will examine this case in detail. Many clients come to my office to explore eligibility for the National Interest Waiver because it allows them to bypass the usual employment-based green card requirements of a job offer and the lengthy labor certification process. In order to qualify for the National Interest Waiver (NIW), the professionals need to hold an advanced degree and provide evidence that they meet the following three criteria: (i) their endeavor has both substantial merit and national importance, (ii) they are well positioned to advance the endeavor and (iii) on balance, it would be beneficial to the U.S. to waive the job offer and labor certification requirements. That’s where we come in when you contact us!

NIW for Geologist

I determined that my client, with his impressive academic background and significant contributions to the field of geology, was a strong candidate for the NIW. First, we submitted extensive documentary evidence establishing that the impact of my client’s research on the furtherance of human knowledge, especially the evolution of the solar system and prediction of climate change, has both substantial merit and national importance. My client holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Geology. He is working on two fully funded federal grants in his role as Assistant Research Professional.  Notably, his work on a NASA grant focuses on examining the impact history of the moon, providing humanity with a more complete picture of the evolution of the solar system, the Earth, and the Moon. Additionally, my client secured a National Science Foundation grant that facilitated the purchase of advanced equipment. This equipment allows him to push the boundaries of microanalytical techniques. We thus established that my client meets the first criterium.

Second, we submitted overwhelming evidence that my client is well-positioned to advance the endeavor. My client has a Ph.D. in geology. His research culminated in many research papers that were published in notable scientific journals. His research has been referenced by many articles utilized by other scientists. He collaborates with various external clients from numerous national and international universities. His two main research projects are focused on the evolution of the surface of Mars. Understanding these surface conditions and environments of Mars is important in humanity’s efforts for the future colonization of Mars. As such, he is well positioned to advance research furthering human knowledge, especially the evolution of the solar system and the prediction of climate change. Based on the above, he meets the second criterium.

Third, my client was hired as the top candidate in the advertised competitive search. Our immigration lawyers submitted support letters confirming that none of the U.S. candidates – many from top U.S. universities – provided the same level of accomplishment and promise as my client. We established with overwhelming evidence that my client offers contributions of such value that, he will serve the national interest to a substantially greater degree than would an available U.S. worker having the same minimum qualifications even if other qualified U.S. workers are available.  Accordingly, it would be beneficial to the United States to waive the job offer and labor certification requirement. The waiver of the job offer is in the national interest.  Accordingly, my client met the third criterium. We have demonstrated that my client’s contributions in the Earth and Space science field are of such unusual significance that they merit the special benefit of an interest waiver.

Please review our other post discussing some of our other National Interest Waiver cases: click here (NIW for Senior Power System Engineer) or here (NIW for Mining Engineer).

Please note that this article does not constitute legal advice.  We simplified the law to provide general information about the National Interest Waiver.  If you would like to discuss if you qualify for the National Interest Waiver or what is the best visa or green card option for you, schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration lawyer in Scottdale, Arizona or call the Juras Law Firm office at 480-425-2009! We look forward to talking with you and helping you obtain the National Interest Waiver and green card!

 

 

Sep
26

By

May investments in multiple businesses be combined for EB-5 green card?

Category: Best EB-5 attorney in Phoenix, Diversified enterprise, EB-5 visa, EB-5 visa attorney, Green card through investment, immigration Attorney in phoenix, Immigration attorney in Scottsdale, Multiple businesses, Top EB-5 attorney in Phoenix Tags: , , , , , ,

Investors sometime want to invest in multiple business. Some businesses may not need 10 new full time jobs. We often hear a question whether the $1,800,000 investment (or $900,000 in targeted employment areas) may be diversified across a portfolio of businesses. For example, a client wanted to invest in two restaurant franchises ($800,000 in one restaurant and one million in the second restaurant).

An investor my invest in several business, but only if the minimum investment amount is first placed in a single new commercial enterprise. An investor may invest in one enterprise that diversifies and puts $800,000 towards one business it wholly owns and $1,000,000 towards another business it wholly owns.

Please note that this article does not constitute a legal advice.  We simplified the law to outline only one aspect of the EB-5 green card process. If you would like to obtain an investment (EB-5) green card, call our experienced EB-5 green card attorney at 480-425-2009 or schedule your consultation online.

Sep
26

By

Does a position shared by several employees count as one full-time job for EB-5 job creation?

Category: Best EB-5 attorney in Phoenix, Best immigration attorney, Best immigration attorney in Scottsdale, Best Investor visa attorney in Phoenix, EB-5 job sharing, EB-5 visa, EB-5 visa attorney, Green card, Green card through investment, immigration Attorney in phoenix, Immigration attorney in Scottsdale, Immigration attorney Phoenix, Immigration lawyer Arizona, Immigration Lawyer Scottsdale, Investor visa, Legal permanent residency, Top EB-5 attorney in Phoenix, Top immigration attorney, Top immigration attorney in Phoenix Tags: , , , , , , , ,

In order to get an EB-5 green card through investment, the investor has to create at least 10 full-time jobs. A client wanted to invest in a restaurant where several employees would share some positions. Does that qualify?

To be considered a full-time job, it requires 35 hours a week. Where two or more employees share a full-time position it counts as one-full time job if they combine at least 35 hours per week. To demonstrate a full-time position is shared by more than one employees, the investor may should a written job-sharing agreement, we weekly schedule or evidence of the sharing of the responsibilities or benefits of a permanent full time position. However, two part-time jobs do not count.

Please note that this article does not constitute a legal advice.  We simplified the law to outline only one aspect of the EB-5 green card process. If you would like to obtain an investment (EB-5) green card, call our experienced EB-5 green card attorney at 480-425-2009 or schedule your consultation online.

Jun
26

By

What does the US Supreme Court latest decision mean for DACA recipients

Category: DACA, Dreamer, immigration Attorney in phoenix, Immigration attorney Phoenix, Immigration lawyer Arizona, Immigration lawyer in phoenix, immigration lawyers phoenix Tags: , ,


On June 18, 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) decision to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program was arbitrary and capricious under the Administrative Procedures Act because the DHS failed to consider important aspects of the problem – whether to continue only the deferred action part of the DACA program. DHS failed to provide a reasoned explanation for its action and also failed to address the considerable reliance interests created by the DACA program, such as the impact on Dreamers and their families, if the agency terminated DACA.
The parties agreed that DHS may rescind DACA. The Court remanded the case for further consideration.

Under the US Supreme Court decision, USCIS must continue to process the following types of DACA requests:

  • Current DACA recipients can file a renewal DACA request.
  • Recipients whose previous DACA expired one year ago or less may still file a renewal DACA request.
  • DACA Recipients whose previous DACA expired more than one year ago cannot file a renewal DACA request but may file an initial DACA request.
  • DACA recipients whose previous DACA was terminated at any point cannot request DACA as a renewal but may file an initial DACA request.

In order to comply with the Court’s order, USCIS will have to publish guidance on processing the applications of applicants who have not previously been granted DACA and advance parole requests that were suspended under prior court orders.

Please note that this article does not constitute a legal advice.  We simplified the law in order to outline the latest DACA developments.  If you would like to discuss if you may qualify for DACA or the best strategy after the US Supreme Court decision, call our experienced immigration attorney at 480-425-2009 or contact an experienced immigration attorney via our website to schedule a consultation. We look forward to discussing how we can help you with DACA application.

Jun
23

By

Presidential Proclamation Suspending Entry of Certain Non-Immigrants

Category: H-1B, H-1B attorney in Phoenix, H-2B visa, immigration Attorney in phoenix, Immigration attorney Phoenix, Immigration lawyer Arizona, Immigration lawyer in phoenix, immigration lawyers phoenix, L visa Tags: , , , , , , , ,

On June 22, 2020, President Trump signed a proclamation suspending and limiting the U.S. entry of foreign nationals on H-1B, H-2B, J (as intern, trainee, teacher, camp counselor, au pair, or summer work travel program) and L visas and any individuals accompanying or following to join them.

The proclamation applies to those who are outside the U.S. on June 24, 2020 and do not have such non-immigrant visa or official travel document that is valid on that day.

The suspension and limitation on entry does not apply to lawful permanent residents, spouses and children of the U.S. citizens, essential workers, individuals whose entry would be in the national interest.

The proclamation shall expire on December 31, 2020, and may be continued.

Please note that this article does not constitute a legal advice.  We simplified the law in order to outline the Proclamation.  If you would like to discuss how does this Proclamation affect you, call our experienced Immigration Attorney at 480-425-2009 or contact an experienced Immigration Attorney via our website to schedule a consultation. We look forward to talking with you and helping you analyze the effect of the Proclamation and your alternatives.

Jun
17

By

H-1B petition approval in 3 weeks

Category: H-1B, H-1B attorney in Phoenix, H-1B cap, immigration Attorney in phoenix, Immigration attorney Phoenix, Immigration lawyer Arizona Tags: , , , , , ,

My client is a global marketing and branding company and filed a H-1B petition for a position of an Interior Designer.  The H-1B registration was selected in the H-1B lottery.  The Client was very cooperative and provided all documents necessary to show to the USCIS satisfaction that the Interior Designer is a specialty occupation according to the regulations.  In this case, the Petitioner (Client) normally requires a degree or its equivalent for the position and a baccalaureate or higher degree or its equivalent is normally the minimum requirement for entry into the position of the Interior Designer.   The position of the Interior Designer is also so complex that it can be performed only by an individual with a degree.

The client provided documents related to the position and showing that the Beneficiary (Employee) meets the requirements for the position.   The Beneficiary has a Master of Interior Architecture and has been working for the Client as a junior Interior Designer on her OPT.   My client was very happy to receive the approval just in 3 weeks, especially for entry level position.  Congratulations!

Please note that this case study does not constitute a legal advice.  We simplified the law in order to outline the H-1B process.  If you would like to discuss if you may qualify for H-1B status, call our experienced H-1B visa attorney at 480-425-2009 or contact an experienced H-1B attorney via our website to schedule a consultation. We look forward to discussing how we can help you obtain your H-1B visa

Nov
20

By

Irena Juras Gets Dreamer her Green Card

Category: DACA, Dreamer, Green card, Green Card based on Marriage, Green card for Dreamer, immigration Attorney in phoenix, Immigration attorney Phoenix, Immigration lawyer Arizona, Immigration lawyer in phoenix, immigration lawyers phoenix, Legal permanent residency, Legal Permanent Resident Status, Marriage Green Card, Top immigration attorney, Undocumented immigrants

A woman that has been brought to the United States from Mexico when she was 3 years old (let’s call her the “Dreamer”) came to my office with her husband who is a U.S. citizen. They had been married for 2.5 years and have three children born in the United States. We discussed the Dreamer’s options and the Dreamer has decided to request the Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (“DACA”). She had a high school diploma and met the residency and other requirements for DACA approval. DACA was approved and she received her work authorization. Then, we filed a petition with the Dreamer’s husband as the petitioner. The petition was accompanied by supporting documents sufficient to rebut the presumption of marriage fraud. The petition was approved. Meanwhile, the Dreamer’s mother in Mexico was seriously ill and we applied for advance parole to allow the Dreamer to travel to Mexico to visit her mother. The advance parole was approved and the Dreamer traveled to Mexico, visited and helped her mother and entered the United States legally. Once the Dreamer entered the U.S. legally and met all other requirements for legal permanent residency, we filed her green card application. The application processing time in Phoenix is now more than one year. Finally, we attended an interview with the Dreamer and her husband, the application was approved and her green card has arrived. It was nice to see the happiness in her eyes to finally feel relieved that at age of 31 after living in the United States for 28 years illegally in fear, she does not have to worry that she will be deported and taken from her family. She is very appreciative for my help in guiding her through this process!
If you are facing similar circumstances or know someone else facing similar circumstances, call the immigration attorney Irena Juras at 480-425-2009 or reach us via email to schedule a consultation to discuss how we can help you!

Feb
12

By

H-1B filing season approaches

Category: Best immigration attorney, H-1B, H-1B attorney in Phoenix, H-1B cap, H-1B filing deadline, immigration Attorney in phoenix, Immigration attorney Phoenix

It is now time for employers to start planning the H-1B petition filings for foreign national employees.  The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service will begin accepting H-1B petitions subject to the FY 2017 cap on April 1, 2016.  Beneficiaries of approved H-1B petitions will be eligible to start working on October 1, 2016, the beginning of the FY 2017.  While April 1 may appear to be away, it will be here sooner than you expect.

The H-1B visa category provides for the temporary employment of foreign nationals in “specialty occupations” for which at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent is required (for example, accountants, pharmacists, computer programmers, engineers, lawyers, teachers, and many other professions).

There is a cap of 65,000 visas per year plus 20,000 visas for workers who possess U.S.-earned masters or higher degrees.  It is expected, as in the previous years, that petitions received from April 1 to April 7 (the first five business days of April) will be considered in the H-1B “lottery” (computer-generated random selection process).  The lottery will select H-1B petitions, which will be accepted for adjudication.

As the economy improved and a large number of H-1B candidates is expected to apply this year, we advise employers to be proactive and move quickly to ensure their H-1B petitions are prepared and ready to be filed prior to April 1, 2016.  Keep in mind that prior to the filing of the H-1B petition, a labor condition application has to be certified by the Department of Labor and must be submitted with the H-1B petition.  For more information and help with your H-1B petitions, call us today at 480-425-2009 or contact us through our website!