Helping Clients Self-Petition for an Employment-Based Green Card

This course offers a walkthrough of the EB1A and EB-2 NIW Visa Processes. Designed for immigration attorneys and legal professionals, this course provides a comprehensive guide to assisting clients in self-petitioning for employment-based green cards through the EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) and EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) visa categories. 

This course offers practical insights into navigating these complex processes without employer sponsorship. Through detailed explanations and actionable strategies, participants will gain the knowledge and tools to effectively counsel clients pursuing these highly sought-after pathways to U.S. permanent residency. 

The course will cover the following key topics:  

1. Overview of EB-1A and EB-2 NIW Visas

• Eligibility criteria and legal standards for EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) and EB2 NIW (National Interest Waiver). 

• Comparison of the two visa categories, including advantages and challenges. 

2. Building a Strong Petition

• Identifying and documenting evidence to meet EB-1A's "sustained acclaim" and "extraordinary ability" requirements.  

• Crafting a compelling EB-2 NIW case, including demonstrating "substantial merit" and "national importance."  

• Strategies for gathering and presenting supporting documentation, such as letters of recommendation, publications, and awards. 

3. Navigating the Application Process  

• Step-by-step walkthrough of Form I-140 filing for self-petitioners.  

• Addressing Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs).  

• Tips for communicating with USCIS and managing client expectations. 

4. Practical Tips  

• Common pitfalls and how to avoid them.  

• Dealing with USCIS Errors in adjudication or erroneous rejections. 

• Ethical considerations when advising clients on self-petition strategies. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand Eligibility Requirements: Clearly articulate the legal standards and evidentiary requirements for EB-1A and EB-2 NIW visa petitions
2. Develop Effective Petition Strategies: Identify and compile persuasive evidence to build strong self-petition cases tailored to clients' backgrounds
3. Navigate the Filing Process: Confidently guide clients through the I-140 petition process, including responding to USCIS requests and challenge
4. Apply Practical Insights: Use real-world case studies to anticipate and address common issues in EB-1A and EB-2 NIW petitions