Employment-Based Permanent Residency Options
Permanent Residency (PR) is the right to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely. People often refer to this benefit as having a "green card." It is possible to become a permanent resident of the U.S. in numerous ways, including:
- Through employment
- Family based petition
- Self-sponsorship by National Interest Waiver or Extraordinary Ability
- Green Card Lottery (Diversity Visa)
KU internally supports three types of employment based PR processes: labor certification for faculty, professional (non-teaching) staff, and Outstanding Professor or Researcher petitions. Family based petitions, National Interest Waivers, and Diversity Visa Lottery application cannot be processed through International Programs.
All employment based PR applications filed by KU must be processed by, or directed by, International Programs. Hiring departments may not prepare or sign immigration documents or Labor Certification applications. Outside attorneys may not prepare or file applications or petitions on behalf of KU unless previously approved by International Programs or KU Office of the General Counsel. See KU Policy on Immgration Related Petitions.
While most University-sponsored applications are successfully adjudicated, International Programs cannot guarantee a green card to an employee. The permanent residence application process can take years to complete, depending on the type of case and fluctations in government agency processing times. During the entire PR process, until the employee is granted a green card, it is strongly recommended that the employee maintain his her nonimmigrant status (e.g. H-1B, J-1, O-1) by requesting an extension of stay. Please contact Linda Harris for details.
Departments or Units with an inquiry or have an interest in initiating employment based permanent residency process on behalf on an international employee or scholar may contact Charlie Bankart or Linda Harris in International Programs for more information.
Procedures and Forms
- Special Handling Labor Certification (Tenure-Track Faculty Positions)
- Standard Labor Certification (Non-Faculty Positions)
- Outstanding Professor or Researcher