Employment-Based
Visas
Helping Employers and Professionals Obtain Permanent Residence Through Work
New Orleans Immigration Lawyers
At The Rousell Law Firm, we guide Louisiana employers and skilled foreign nationals through the process of obtaining lawful permanent residence (a green card) based on employment.
Employment-based (EB) green cards allow individuals to live and work permanently in the United States, and often serve as a path to citizenship. Our New Orleans immigration attorneys handle every stage — from PERM labor certification through USCIS filing and adjustment of status.
What Is an Employment-Based Green Card?
An employment-based green card is a permanent visa category that allows foreign nationals to remain in the U.S. indefinitely.
Most categories require a U.S. employer sponsor, although certain high-skilled or extraordinary applicants may self-petition.
The process generally involves three stages:
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Labor Certification (PERM) – Employer proves no qualified U.S. workers are available.
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Immigrant Petition (Form I-140) – Employer (or sometimes individual) petitions USCIS.
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Green Card Application (Form I-485 or DS-260) – Applicant adjusts status in the U.S. or applies abroad.
Employment-Based Green Card Categories
Category | Description | Labor Certification (PERM) | USCIS / Govt Fees (as of 2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
EB-5: Immigrant Investors | Requires $800,000–$1,050,000 investment in a U.S. enterprise that creates 10+ jobs. | Not required | I-526E: $11,160 |
EB-4: Special Immigrants | Includes religious workers, certain broadcasters, and U.S. government employees abroad. | Not required | I-360: $545 |
EB-3: Skilled Workers & Professionals | For skilled workers (2+ years of experience) and professionals with bachelor’s degrees. | Required | I-140: $715 |
EB-2: Professionals with Advanced Degrees / Exceptional Ability | Requires a master’s degree or equivalent experience. National Interest Waiver (NIW) allows self-petition. | Required (unless NIW) | I-140: $715 |
EB-1: Priority Workers | Individuals of extraordinary ability, outstanding professors/researchers, multinational executives. | Not required for EB-1A or EB-1C | I-140: $715 |
PERM Labor Certification Process
For most EB-2 and EB-3 cases, the employer must first obtain PERM Labor Certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).
This process includes:
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Job advertisement and recruitment to test the U.S. labor market
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Prevailing wage determination
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Filing ETA Form 9089
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Certification showing no qualified U.S. workers are available
Once PERM is approved, the employer can file Form I-140 with USCIS.
Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
After USCIS approves the I-140 petition and a visa number becomes available, the applicant can:
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File Form I-485 to adjust status if already in the U.S., or
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Apply through consular processing (DS-260) at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.
Dependents (spouse and unmarried children under 21) may apply for green cards as derivative beneficiaries.
Form / Process | Fee |
|---|---|
Biometrics Fee | $85 |
DS-260 (Consular Visa Application) | $345 |
Premium Processing (optional) | $2,805 |
Form I-131 (Advance Parole, optional) | $630 |
Form I-765 (Work Authorization, optional) | $520 |
Form I-485 (Child under 14, filing with parent) | $950 |
Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) | $1,440 |
Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) | $715 |
Fees are subject to change by USCIS and the U.S. Department of State.
TYPICAL COSTS
&
FEES
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires government filing fees, which vary by case type. Typical expenses include:
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Petition for Family-Based Immigration: $675
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Adjustment of Status (green card within the U.S.): $1,440
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Employment Authorization (optional): $260
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Advance Parole (optional): $630
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Consular Processing Fees (if applying abroad): $120–$325 p/p
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Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): $235
Attorney’s fees are separate and depend on the complexity of the case. At The Rousell Law Firm, we provide transparent fee structures and clear guidance so families know what to expect from the start.
The Rousell Law Firm's Team
Clarity in Counsel. Results-Driven Solutions. An Open, Honest Process.
At Rousell Law Firm, we blend compassionate guidance with thoughtful legal strategy. Our attorneys take the time to understand your individual needs, craft a customized plan, and deliver a clear path forward — offering straightforward expectations, transparent pricing, and practical timelines.
Same Day Consultations
Tailored Approach & Transparent Guidance
Serving Greater New Orleans Metro & Surrounding Areas
Joelann S. Rousell, J.D., MBA
Managing Attorney
Attorney Rousell is a dedicated and skilled legal professional committed to providing exceptional representation for clients facing family law, immigration, personal and other legal matters.
Arielle M. Lewis, J.D.
(Of Counsel)
Attorney Lewis (Of Counsel) assists the Rousell Law Firm with all family matters, such as: divorce, child custody, child support, and community property matters.
How The Rousell Law Firm Can Help?
Our team works with clients across the New Orleans metropolitan area and South Louisiana. We:
Experienced immigration counsel for Louisiana employers and professionals
Comprehensive petition preparation with legal and evidentiary support
Timely communication and transparent fee structure
Strategic solutions for extensions, transfers, and compliance audits
At The Rousell Law Firm, we combine deep immigration knowledge with personalized attention to help clients work legally and confidently in the United States.
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