Renowned attorney Bruna Frota has recently published an informative article on the Super Lawyers website, outlining the steps to secure a work authorization in Texas. The article, titled “What Should I Do to Obtain a Work Authorization to Work in Texas?”, serves as a comprehensive guide for immigrants seeking legal employment in the state. It’s important to note that, since immigration laws are federal, these pathways are applicable regardless of the state.

In her article, Bruna Frota details the various options available for individuals seeking long-term and temporary work authorization. For those aiming for long-term employment and permanent residency, she explores employment-based green card applications, categorized into five distinct groups:

• EB-1:For outstanding professors, researchers, and individuals with extraordinary abilities.
• EB-2:For individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities in science, arts, or business.
• EB-2: National Interest Waiver:** Allows for the waiver of the labor certification process for those proposing a national interest endeavor for the United States.
• EB-3: Covers skilled workers, professionals, and unskilled workers.
• EB-5: For investors willing to make significant contributions to U.S. businesses.

Bruna Frota emphasizes that the employment-based green card application process typically requires the employer to file a petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), demonstrating the unavailability of qualified American workers for the position, with exceptions for EB-1 and EB-2 NIW categories.

For temporary work needs, the article presents various non-immigrant visa options. For example, the H-1B visa is designed for individuals in specialty occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise in specific fields such as IT, finance, engineering, and healthcare. The candidate must hold at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in their specialty area. The employer must sponsor the candidate, prove that no American worker can fill the position, and participate in a lottery before proceeding.

The L-1 visa facilitates the transfer of key employees from a foreign company to a U.S. branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. It includes two subcategories:

• L-1A: For executives and managers.
• L-1B: For employees with specialized knowledge.

The employee must have worked for the foreign company for at least one year within the last three years before applying for the visa.

Bruna Frota underscores that the work authorization application process can be complex and requires meticulous attention to detail. Consulting with an immigration attorney is crucial to ensure the process complies with U.S. laws and regulations.

Bruna Frota’s article on Super Lawyers is a valuable resource for immigrants wishing to work legally in Texas. She provides an extensive overview of available options, clarifying the requirements and procedures for each type of work authorization. Her expertise and experience ensure that readers receive accurate and reliable information to navigate this complex process.

For more information, read Bruna Frota’s original article on Super Lawyers: https://www.superlawyers.com/ask/immigration/texas/what-should-i-do-to-get-a-work-permit-that-allows-me-to-work-in-texas/98b73c02-ce15-43dd-a754-28eda8697301.html