An employment-based green card grants you permanent residency in the United States. Here are the four main pathways.
EB-1: Priority Workers
Three subcategories: EB-1A for extraordinary ability (self-petition, no job offer required), EB-1B for outstanding professors and researchers, EB-1C for multinational managers. No labor certification required.
EB-2: Advanced Degree Professionals
Requires a job offer and employer sponsorship in most cases. Needs an advanced degree or bachelor's plus 5 years of progressive experience. The National Interest Waiver (NIW) waives the job offer requirement if your work is in the national interest.
EB-3: Skilled Workers and Professionals
Most common category for working professionals. Requires a permanent job offer and a PERM labor certification. Processing times can be very long for nationals of India and China.
EB-5: Investor Visa
Requires a minimum investment of $800,000-$1,050,000 in a US business that creates at least 10 full-time jobs. The least common pathway for most people.
The Priority Date System
Green card availability depends on your country of birth and the category. Check the Visa Bulletin published monthly by the State Department for current wait times.