EMPLOYMENT BASED CATEGORIES

IMMIGRANTS
Those who obtain permanent residence ("green cards") through business immigration are called "Employment Based" immigrants. There are three commonly-used Employment Based preferences or classes under which potential immigrants might obtain permanent residence.

EMPLOYMENT BASED FIRST PREFERENCE
EBP 1-1:
Aliens with "extraordinary ability" in the arts, sciences, education, business or athletics who have received sustained national or international acclaim.
EBP 1-2:
Outstanding professors and researchers.
A. Aliens of international recognition in a specific field of study.B. Have at least three years of experience in the respected field.C. Will be employed in a tenured or tenure-track position.
EBP 1-3:
Multinational executives and managers who have worked with the sponsoring employer or corporate affiliate subsidiary or parent for at least one year in the three years preceding the application.

EMPLOYMENT BASED SECOND PREFERENCE
EBP 2-1:
Aliens who are members of the professions holding advanced degrees.
A. A Master's and/of Doctorate (Ph.D.) degree.B. May include a Bachelor's degree and five years of progressive experience in the specialty.
EBP 2-2:
Aliens of exceptional ability (E21)
C. "Exceptional ability" means a level of expertise significantly above that ordinarily encountered in the science, arts, or business. (Arts shall include athletics).

EMPLOYMENT BASED THIRD PREFERENCE
EBP 3-1:
Skilled Workers with at least two years training and experience.
EBP 3-2:
Professionals with Baccalaureate Degrees.
EW3:
Other worker (unskilled) (EW3)
As a general rule, Employment Based 2nd Preference immigrants require an approved labor certification application if they are to obtain permanent residence unless they are eligible for, and receive, a National Interest Waiver. All Employment Based 3rd Preference immigrants require an approved labor certification to obtain permanent residence.