WORK IN THE U.S. FOR FOREIGN PILOTS

There is an unprecedented opportunity for foreign experienced pilots to apply for permanent residence in the U.S. under the EB-2 NIW Program.

As the growing demand for pilots in the U.S continues to rise, experienced and accomplished pilots holding the appropriate background may apply for a Green Card for themselves and their families through the EB-2 National Interest Waiver Program.

Benefits of the EB-2 NIW Program:

  • Renewable 10-year permit (green card) that allows for the unconditional right to work and live in the U.S.
  • Family members such as spouse and dependent children under 21 years old will receive their own green card independent of the main applicant
  • A green card is the pathway to US citizenship after 5 years of residence in the U.S.,
  • Applicants do not require a job offer to apply and do not need to reside or travel to the U.S to apply.

What do I need to know?

  • 10 years documented experience flying as a pilot.
  • Holding a valid ATPL License
  • At some point during the past 5 years, having a salary within the top 70% of pilots in country where you were employed.
  • Having a degree, diploma, certificate relating to your exceptional ability in the aviation industry
  • Holding a membership in a pilot professional association(s).
  • Recognition of achievements in the aviation industry from peers, government entities, professional or business organizations.
  • Other comparable evidence (anything that makes your training and/or experience special or noteworthy, including management and/or training duties)
  1. Submit an expression of interest through our form
  2. Profile verification to ensure you meet at least 3 of the criteria
  3. Submit the completed application forms and required documents.
  4. Obtain the National Interest Waiver.
  5. File for the immigrant visa at U.S. consulate abroad, allowing the applicant and family members to get their immigrant visas.
  6. Arrival to the U.S. and receipt of Green Cards via mail.
  7. The application processing time varies according to the applicant’s country of birth.
  8. Typical processing time is within 12-16 months but in recent times the process has reduced to as low as 3 months.
No. The NIW EB-2 Program allows individuals who meet the requirements to apply without the need for a US carrier to get involved.
No. The NIW EB-2 Program does not require applicants to secure a job offer.
Although an FAA license will be required once issued with the green card, is it NOT required to have one at the time of your application. If you have begun the FAA licensure process and have the opportunity to finish it prior to filing the NIW, it is encouraged.
No. Only highly experienced pilots with an exceptional background in the aviation industry would qualify.
Although an FAA license will be required once issued with the green card, is it NOT required to have one at the time of your application. If you have begun the FAA licensure process and have the opportunity to finish it prior to filing the NIW, it is encouraged.
The average time ranges from 8 to 12months (on average), but we have seen a significant reduction in processing times where a applicants have received approvals within 3 months from the time of submission.
Green card holders may apply for U.S citizenship after 5 years of main residence in the U.S, by spending over 2.5 years of the 5 years with no absences of more than 6 cumulative months in any 12 months period after becoming a permanent resident of the United States.

Harvey Law Group:

AviationJobs.Me has selected the Harvey Law Group as a partner of choice to recommend candidates who are interested in this scheme.

Founded in 1992 and headquartered in Hong Kong, HLG has since developed into a leading multinational law firm. From its over 25 offices around the world, HLG advises on a range of legal matters including investment and business immigration, corporate law and a range of private client services.