Understanding the E19 Green Card Category
The E19 category is specifically for spouses of individuals who have received a green card as a priority worker. Priority workers are those who possess exceptional abilities in certain fields, such as science, art, education, business, or athletics. This category allows spouses of these talented individuals to live and work permanently in the United States alongside their partners.
Eligibility Requirements for E19
Requirements for the Priority Worker
To be eligible for the E19 category, your spouse must first qualify as a priority worker. Priority worker classifications include:
- E11 (Extraordinary Ability): Individuals with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.
- E12 (Outstanding Professors and Researchers): Individuals with international recognition for outstanding achievements in a specific academic field.
- E13 (Multinational Executives and Managers): Executives or managers of multinational companies who meet specific criteria.
- E16 (Skilled Workers): Individuals with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business.
- E17 (Professionals): Individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability in their professions.
- E18 (Certain Religious Workers): Ministers, religious professionals, or other workers in religious vocations or occupations.
Requirements for the Spouse
If your spouse meets the requirements for one of the priority worker categories, you may be eligible for the E19 green card. To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:
- Legally Married: You must be legally married to the priority worker.
- Derivative Beneficiary: Your green card application will be filed as a derivative beneficiary under your spouse’s priority worker petition.
The E19 Green Card Process
The process of obtaining an E19 green card involves several steps:
- Priority Worker Petition: Your spouse must first file an immigration petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) under the appropriate priority worker category.
- Petition Approval: Once the USCIS approves your spouse’s petition, you can proceed with the green card application process.
- Green Card Application: You will need to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, along with supporting documents such as your marriage certificate and evidence of your spouse’s priority worker status.
- USCIS Review: The USCIS will review your application and may request additional information or an interview.
- Green Card Approval: If your application is approved, you will receive your green card, granting you permanent resident status in the United States.
Benefits of the E19 Green Card
Obtaining an E19 green card offers numerous benefits, including:
- Permanent Residency: You will have the right to live and work permanently in the United States.
- Travel Freedom: You can travel freely in and out of the country without the need for additional visas or travel documents.
- Path to Citizenship: After meeting specific requirements, you may be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship.
- Social Security and Medicare: You will be eligible to obtain a Social Security number and enroll in Medicare, providing access to social security benefits and healthcare coverage.
- Family Sponsorship: Once you become a U.S. citizen, you may be able to sponsor other family members for green cards.
Conclusion
The E19 green card category provides a valuable opportunity for spouses of priority workers to build a life in the United States. The process can be complex, but the benefits of permanent residency and the potential for U.S. citizenship make it a worthwhile endeavor for eligible individuals. By understanding the eligibility requirements and the application process, you can navigate the path to E19 status and join your spouse in pursuing your American dream.
