Employment Based Permanent Residency Information

"Green Card," "Permanent Resident," "LPR," "Resident Alien," "Immigrant" all refer to a permanent immigration status in the United States which has unlimited employment authorization in the country along with the same tax and social security responsibilities as a citizen. Permanent residence is shown by the "green card" form I-551 or by an immigration stamp in the passport indicating processing for a form I-551. Resident status is generally based either on a family relationship with a citizen or resident of the U.S., or on employment. The University, as an employer, is not involved in family-based applications, but may be involved in the process towards supporting an employment-based application for a faculty or staff member.

There are several employment-based categories each having its own qualifications and procedures for application. It is essential to consider the characteristics of the job, and the professional training and experience of the employee as well as the current availability of visas in the various categories in determining the most appropriate category for applications.

The Office of International Affairs under Texas Tech OP 70.38 will support an employment based application. The Office provides information to employees who are interested in working towards permanent residence based on employment and to university departments having questions concerning immigrant applications and procedures.

Employment-based applications may involve a three step process beginning with an application to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) for a "labor certification" followed by a form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker filed with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).  Finally, the foreign national can file the personal application to USCIS on form I-485 for adjustment of status or with a U.S. consulate for an immigrant visa. 

The employment based process for permanent residency through Texas Tech begins with a request by the employing unit of the University. For more information contact Dawn Cepica, Lead Administrator, 806-742-3667.