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Celebrating a Recent PERM Labor Certification Success!

We are thrilled to share a recent success story from our practice! We had the privilege of assisting an international company in securing a PERM labor certification for a Vice President position. This role requires a bachelor’s degree and ten years of progressive experience, along with expertise in working across different cultures. The candidate also needed in-depth knowledge of both Mexican and U.S. customs laws, import/export processes, and experience in the Maquiladora field.

In addition to these qualifications, the Vice President will be responsible for designing the company’s mission, values, and strategic goals, managing daily operations, and overseeing revenue generation. The role also requires monthly travel to Mexico to maintain close ties and ensure seamless operations.

The journey started with obtaining the Prevailing Wage Determination from the Department of Labor, which took about three months. Following that, the Department of Labor took sixteen months to certify the Application for Permanent Employment Certification. We then filed the Immigrant Petition with the USCIS with premium processing to have the approval within 15 business days. Once the priority date becomes current, we will proceed with adjusting the candidate’s status.

We are excited to celebrate this milestone and share that if you are looking to pursue a green card and have an employer willing to sponsor you, we would love to assist you on this journey. Feel free to schedule a consultation at calendly.com/irena-3 so we can explore the details and help you achieve your goals!

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June EB-1 Pro Bono Case Lottery

This June, we’re giving back.

We will select one EB-1 extraordinary ability case submitted during the month of June to handle pro bono—with no legal fees. If you’ve been thinking about applying, this is your chance.

To be considered, simply submit your case through our EB-1 Wizard. The tool helps us better understand your background and evaluate your eligibility.

At the end of June, we’ll review all submissions and choose one case to represent at no charge.

Start your journey today—use the EB-1 Wizard: https://juraslaw.com/do-you-qualify-for-eb-1/

and be part of the June 2025 EB-1 pro bono lottery.

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EB-1A Visa Approved for International Soccer Star | Extraordinary Ability Green Card for Athletes

EB-1A Petition Approved for Internationally Acclaimed Soccer Player

We are thrilled to announce the approval of an EB-1A petition—a first-preference immigrant petition—for our client, a world-class professional soccer player. This successful case highlights how athletes of extraordinary ability can qualify for a U.S. green card without employer sponsorship or labor certification.

Our client’s remarkable achievements on both national and international stages met the strict legal requirements under 8 C.F.R. § 204.5(h)(3) for individuals of extraordinary ability.

What Is the EB-1A Petition for Individuals of Extraordinary Ability?

The EB-1A immigrant petition is designed for individuals who are at the very top of their field—whether in athletics, the arts, sciences, business, or education. It provides a direct path to a U.S. green card without needing a job offer or PERM labor certification.

To qualify, applicants must demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim through documentation of a major internationally recognized award or satisfy at least three out of ten criteria.

How We Proved EB-1A Eligibility for a Professional Soccer Player

In our client’s case, we strategically demonstrated that he met three key EB-1A criteria for athletes of extraordinary ability:

  1. Nationally and Internationally Recognized Awards

Our client received numerous awards honoring his soccer achievements. He was the top goal scorer in his home country, broke longstanding records both there and in the U.S., and earned recognition from leading soccer organizations. These formal accolades played a critical role in proving national and international acclaim.

  1. Membership in Athletic Associations requiring Outstanding Achievement of their Members, as judged by Recognized National and International Experts

He held membership in high-level soccer associations, including:

  • National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)
  • United Soccer League Players Association (USLPA)
  • His national soccer team, where he competed internationally

We demonstrated in detail to the satisfaction of USCIS that our client (i) was a member of the associations, (ii) the associations operate in the field of soccer, (iii) membership requires outstanding achievements, and (iv) admission is evaluated by recognized experts—thereby meeting the second criterion.

  1. Published Material about Client in Major Sports Media

Our client’s career was extensively covered by national and international sports outlets. These features highlighted his milestones, record-breaking achievements, team affiliations, and awards, thereby establishing that he met the third criterion.

Continuation of Professional Soccer Career in the U.S. and Merit Evaluation

As required under the EB-1 category, our client demonstrated that he will continue his professional soccer career in the United States. After USCIS determined that he met at least three of the regulatory criteria, it proceeded with the final merits determination. Numerous expert opinion letters from respected figures in the international soccer community assisted USCIS in its evaluation and ultimately supported the petition’s approval.

A Winning Legal Strategy for Extraordinary Ability Petitions

Filing a successful EB-1A green card petition requires more than meeting technical requirements—it demands a persuasive, well-documented narrative aligned with USCIS expectations. Our immigration law firm works closely with clients to build strong, individualized cases that meet each of the EB-1 regulatory criteria.

Interested in learning if you qualify for an EB-1 green card as an athlete?

If you are a professional athlete, coach, or performer with international recognition and a record of sustained excellence, you may qualify for a U.S. green card through the EB-1A extraordinary ability category.  Our firm specializes in extraordinary ability visas for athletes and professionals.

Find out if you qualify for an EB-1 green card: https://juraslaw.com/do-you-qualify-for-eb-1/
Schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/irena-3
Explore your immigration options and take the first step on your U.S. immigration journey today.

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Another NIW Success – Approved for PhD Researcher in Microbiology

We are excited to share another National Interest Waiver (NIW) success story—this time for our client, a talented scientist whose I-140 petition was approved without a Request for Evidence (RFE).

Our client is currently in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, pursuing his Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences. He previously earned his Master’s degree in Microbiology, where his research made a meaningful impact in the medical and scientific community.

Our client ’s journey is a great example of how a well-prepared NIW petition can open doors to permanent residency in the United States—without needing a job offer or labor certification.

What Made Client ’s Case Successful?

To qualify for the EB-2 National Interest Waiver, we had to prove three things:

  1. His work has substantial merit and national importance.
  2. He is well-positioned to advance the proposed work.
  3. It would benefit the U.S. to waive the usual job offer and labor certification requirements.

Client ’s groundbreaking research in microbiology focuses on understanding how human cells repair themselves after being damaged by harmful bacterial toxins—think deadly infections like flesh-eating disease and chronic genetic conditions like muscular dystrophy. His discoveries, including a new cell repair pathway and therapeutic targets, have already contributed to potential treatments in infection control, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

His work was funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), presented at prestigious national conferences, and published in peer-reviewed journals. Multiple experts in the field wrote strong letters supporting the importance and urgency of his research.

We put together a compelling NIW petition that highlighted his qualifications, the value of his work to public health, and the national interest in allowing him to continue that research in the U.S.

Result? Approved—no RFE, no delays.

Could You Qualify for a National Interest Waiver?

Client ’s story is inspiring, but he’s not alone. We work with researchers, engineers, entrepreneurs, physicians, and other professionals across the U.S. who may be eligible for a National Interest Waiver based on their expertise and contributions.

If you: Hold an advanced degree (like a Master’s or Ph.D.),

  • Are making an impact in your field,
  • Have research, publications, or achievements that benefit the U.S.,

…then you might qualify too—even without a U.S. job offer.

Want to find out if you qualify for an NIW?
Contact us today to schedule a consultation: https://calendly.com/irena-3

Or contact us:

https://juraslaw.com/contact-us

480-425-2009

We’ll review your background and advise you on the best path forward.

Let’s see how we can help turn your hard work into a green card—just like we did for our client.

 

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Fast NIW Approval for an Engineer

Securing a National Interest Waiver (NIW) can be a complex and time-consuming process. However, recent cases show that well-prepared petitions can lead to swift approvals. One notable example involves an electrical engineer specializing in control systems who achieved rapid NIW approval due to his innovative work in automation, renewable energy, and semiconductor technology.

Academic and Professional Background

The engineer’s research focuses on applying advanced control theories and electrical engineering principles to industrial systems, especially in high-impact sectors like semiconductors, manufacturing, technology, and renewable energy. He holds a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering and a Bachelor of Engineering in Instrumentation and Control Engineering. During his master’s program, he published several papers in reputable journals and presented his findings at prestigious conferences.

Contributions to National Interests

Collaborating on a key project with the Department of Energy, he developed technology that enhances the viability and economic competitiveness of renewable energy sources. This innovation reduces U.S. reliance on foreign energy, thereby strengthening national security. Currently, he designs and develops electrical systems, automation frameworks, and control systems for multi-million-dollar semiconductor manufacturing process modules.

Demonstrating National Importance

To support his NIW petition, the engineer provided extensive evidence of the substantial merit and national importance of his work. Letters from leading industry experts and government officials highlighted the critical impact of his contributions and the adoption of his innovations in key projects. The petition successfully established that waiving the standard labor certification requirement was in the best interest of the United States, allowing him to continue his research and development efforts without employer sponsorship.

Swift Approval

What set this case apart was the speed of approval. While NIW cases can sometimes take several months, this petition received a favorable decision in just a few weeks, thanks to compelling evidence and well-structured legal arguments.

Conclusion

This case illustrates that professionals in fields such as electrical engineering, automation, semiconductor technology, and renewable energy—particularly those contributing to national security and energy independence—can successfully obtain a National Interest Waiver. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) prioritizes cases where the applicant’s contributions clearly benefit the country, making a well-documented petition essential.

If you are an engineer or researcher working in critical sectors like automation, renewable energy, or semiconductors, this success story demonstrates that an NIW could be a viable pathway for you. Contact us and schedule your consultation at https://calendly.com/irena-3 to explore your options and build a strong case for your immigration journey.

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Time to prepare for H-1B filing season

As an immigration lawyer, I’m here to simplify the upcoming changes in the H-1B visa filing process for the Fiscal Year 2025, making it easier for you to understand and prepare. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is introducing a new, beneficiary (employee) centric H-1B registration system.  In the past USCIS conducted the selection process by the registrations filed by employers.  Multiple employers were filing registration for the same employee.  Under the new H-1B registration system,  USCIS will conduct the selection process by unique beneficiaries (employees). This system should significantly reduce or eliminate the advantage of submitting multiple registrations for the same employee solely to increase the chances of selection and should give all beneficiaries an equal chance at selection.

Another change is an introduction of organizational accounts. This new USCIS platform allows online collaboration for employers and their legal representatives and submitting the H-1B registrations.  It was designed to streamline the H-1B filing process. It is important to start planning who will take the new roles of administrators, creation of different groups and associated legal representatives.  Initial H-1B registration period is scheduled from March 6, 2024, at 12 noon (ET) to March 22, 2024, at 12 noon (ET). Make sure to mark these dates on your calendar.

For the first time, the selected employers will be able to file the Petitions for Alien Workers (form I-129) with supporting documents online.  Starting April 1, 2024, all H-1B petitions will be subject to new fees. For employers with 26 or more full-time employees, the Form I-129 filing fee will be $780. Small employers (with 25 or fewer full-time employees) and nonprofit entities will be charged $460. Additionally, an asylum program fee is introduced to cover the costs of asylum adjudications: $600 for larger employers (26 or more employees), $300 for smaller employers and no fee for nonprofit organizations.  Starting February 26, 2024, the premium processing fee is increasing to $2,805

This shift towards a more transparent and efficient system is a crucial development for employers and prospective H-1B applicants. As always, planning ahead and understanding these changes are key to navigating the H-1B process successfully. If you’re an employer looking to sponsor an employee for H-1B visa or if you are an employee aiming for an H-1B status, our experienced H-1B immigration attorneys are here to guide you through the process. Schedule your consultation with an experienced H-1B immigration attorney TODAY at www.calendly.com/irena-3/30min

We look forward to talking with you and helping you!

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Upcoming new H-1B registration process

As we gear up for the H-1B registration and filing season, here’s a quick heads-up on what’s new and why reaching out to an immigration attorney might be your best move.

What’s Happening:

The H-1B registration process is getting a makeover! There are new procedures being implemented by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) for the H-1B registration process.  USCIS is adding a collaboration platform to the H-1B registration system to allow more flexibility for employers.  The employers will be able to do the entire H-1B filing online.  It is important to plan ahead.

Key Dates:

Keep an eye on crucial dates. The H-1B registration will start in March.  USCIS is planning to make the new H-1B collaboration platform accessible in February.  Understanding the timeline is essential to ensure you don’t miss anything that will result in denial. Mark your calendars for the upcoming registration and filing deadlines.

New Procedures:

The H-1B registration process has evolved, and there are updates you need to be aware of. From the new H-1B registration system to the filing procedures, you need stay informed for the successful H-1B process.

Why Consider an Immigration Attorney:

With upcoming changes, having an immigration attorney by your side can make the process smoother.  An immigration attorney is the go-to expert, helping you navigate the complexities of the new H-1B process and ensuring the successful H-1B approval.

Get in Touch:

Don’t hesitate to reach out! If you’re an employer looking to sponsor an employee or if you are an employee aiming for an H-1B, our immigration attorneys are here to guide you through the process. Schedule your consultation with an experienced H-1B immigration attorney at www.calendly.com/irena-3/30min

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Marriage green card for a Canadian citizen approved in 5 months

As an immigration attorney, I have had the privilege of helping hundreds of couples navigate the complexities of the U.S. immigration system to achieve their dreams of being together. Each case is unique, but one particular success story stands out. In this blog, I’d like to share how we achieved the approval of a marriage-based green card for a Canadian-American couple in just 5 months, despite the typical 14.5-month processing time. Their love story is a testament to the power of love and efficient legal assistance.

  1. A Whirlwind Romance: The story begins with my clients, a Canadian citizen and an American, who fell in love after a brief period of dating. Their love was undeniable, and they decided to get married, even though their courtship had been relatively short. (This may be a red flag for USCIS). Their love story was truly extraordinary and heartwarming.
  2. Navigating Immigration Challenges: The couple’s challenge was the U.S. immigration process, which can be daunting, especially for couples who wish to avoid prolonged separation. For most marriage-based green card applications, the USCIS processing times can be quite lengthy, averaging 14.5 months. This couple was determined to stay together and not let bureaucratic delays stand in the way of their dreams.
  3. The Role of an Experienced Attorney: Their key to success was enlisting the help of an experienced immigration attorney. I firmly believe that professional legal guidance is crucial when dealing with the intricate immigration system. My commitment to enabling love stories like this one is what drives me every day.
  4. Building a Strong Case: Working closely with the couple, we compiled a comprehensive and compelling green card petition. We gathered evidence of their bona fide relationship, financial stability, and shared life plans. It was essential to present a strong case that demonstrated their genuine commitment to each other.
  5. The Moment of Triumph: In just five months, we received the green card approval. This was a remarkable achievement, considering the typical processing time. The couple’s joy and relief were palpable, and their love story could continue without any more disruptions.

Conclusion: This love story is a testament to the power of love and the importance of skilled legal assistance in the immigration process. Love should not be restricted by bureaucratic hurdles or prolonged separations. When couples have a genuine relationship and the right legal guidance, they can defy the odds and make their dreams a reality. This couple’s journey is a shining example of how love can conquer even the most significant challenges, and I am honored to have been a part of their success story.

If you would like help with your marriage green card case 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 your green card!

 

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Success Stories Architect’s NIW Approved in 13 Days

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!

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Success Stories: NIW for Researcher Approved in 13 Days

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!