In the EB-3 unskilled process, if you are married or have children, they may qualify to join your application as a dependent. Dependents that qualify include legal spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21. Dependents are eligible to accompany the primary applicant throughout the immigration process and can benefit from certain privileges. This inclusion ensures that dependents' status aligns with the primary applicant's throughout the immigration process, minimizing the potential for separation during visa issuance.
Dependents are introduced into the visa process at a specific phase. For the EB-3 visa, they join during the I-140 stage, which is accompanied by the payment of required fees for each dependent. It is essential to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of dependent-related details to avoid potential delays.
One significant advantage is that dependents, just like the primary applicant, may receive work permits if they are adjusting their status within the United States. This allows them the freedom to seek employment in any job of their choice, providing increased flexibility and opportunities for financial stability. It is important to note that while dependents have the freedom to work in any field, the primary applicant is generally required to fulfill their commitment to work for their sponsoring employer in a full-time capacity. Additionally, spouses with permanent residency are free to work in any job sector, offering additional advantages for the family unit.
Unmarried children under 21 are eligible as dependents, but aging-out concerns arise if they turn 21 during the process. Parents can mitigate this by potentially initiating a separate application for the child, ensuring compliance with initial requirements independently. This strategy helps preserve the child's immigrant eligibility despite potential processing delays.
Furthermore, dependents will ultimately receive their green cards around the same time as the primary applicant, granting them lawful permanent residency in the United States. This status affords them the rights and benefits associated with being a permanent resident, including the ability to live and work permanently in the country. Overall, the inclusion of dependents in the EB3 unskilled process not only allows families to stay together but also provides dependents with valuable opportunities for employment and long-term stability.