Getting a job with Amazon can open the door to living and working legally in the United States. Amazon, known for its competitive salaries and great benefits, stands out among U.S. companies by helping employees from around the world apply for green cards.
This process allows Amazon to hire skilled workers from other countries, supporting its mission to attract top talent. In this article, we’ll walk you through Amazon’s green card sponsorship process, eligibility requirements, and the steps involved.
Are You Eligible for Amazon Green Card Sponsorship?
To qualify for green card sponsorship at Amazon, employees need to meet specific requirements. The roles eligible for sponsorship typically involve advanced skills, knowledge, and responsibilities. Here’s what Amazon looks for:
Eligibility Criteria
- Professional, Technical, or Managerial Roles: Most sponsored positions require high expertise in specific areas, whether it’s in technology, engineering, management, or similar fields.
- Specialization and Experience: The role must be specialized enough to warrant the need for a foreign worker when no suitable American candidates are available.
If you meet these criteria, Amazon could be an excellent place to grow your career while building a life in the U.S.
Understanding the PERM Certification Process
The PERM (Program Electronic Review Management) certification process is essential in securing a green card for employment purposes. Amazon, like other U.S. companies, must first confirm that no qualified American candidate is available to fill the role. The PERM process includes these three main steps:
1. Labor Certification
- Amazon submits an application to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to verify that the job opening cannot be filled by a U.S. worker.
2. Immigrant Petition
- Amazon files Form I-140 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), establishing that they intend to employ a foreign worker in a specific job role.
3. Green Card Application
- Once a visa is available, the employee can apply for an adjustment of status (if already in the U.S.) or proceed with consular processing (if outside the U.S.).
Completing these steps can be time-intensive, but with Amazon’s guidance, employees can successfully navigate the process.
Benefits and Salary of Working at Amazon
Working at Amazon offers competitive pay and attractive benefits, making it one of the top employers for professionals worldwide. Salaries vary depending on the job type, location, and experience. For example:
- Software Engineer: Annual earnings range from $100,000 to $150,000, excluding stock options and bonuses.
- Benefits Package: Includes health insurance, retirement savings, paid time off, and employee discounts.
These compensation packages make Amazon a desirable workplace, especially for international talent seeking career growth and stability.
How Long Does the Green Card Application Process Take?
The time it takes to complete a green card application depends on the green card type and the applicant’s background. Here’s a breakdown of typical timelines:
- Family-Based Green Cards: Processing times vary from 7 months to over 10 years based on the relationship to the U.S. citizen or resident sponsor and the applicant’s home country.
- Employment-Based Green Cards: This can range from 6 months to several years, depending on the applicant’s job role and country of origin.
- Diversity Visa Green Cards: Processing generally takes 6-12 months after application.
- Refugee or Asylee Green Cards: The processing time is usually around 8-14 months.
While the timeline can be lengthy, Amazon’s team assists employees throughout the process, making it easier to manage each stage.
Securing a job at Amazon and obtaining a green card can provide an incredible opportunity to build a fulfilling career and life in the United States.
Amazon offers competitive salaries, a comprehensive benefits package, and a supportive environment for its international employees.
Although the green card application process can take time, Amazon’s dedication to assisting its employees helps make the journey smoother.
For those with the skills and drive, Amazon’s green card sponsorship can be the perfect step toward achieving long-term goals in the U.S.
What roles at Amazon are eligible for green card sponsorship?
Professional, technical, and managerial roles that require specific skills are usually eligible.
What is the PERM process?
It’s a certification process by which Amazon shows no qualified American candidates are available for the role.
How long does the green card application take?
It varies by type; employment-based applications often take several months to years.
Do Amazon employees receive benefits during the sponsorship process?
Yes, Amazon employees enjoy competitive salaries, health benefits, and more while awaiting green card approval.
Can I apply if I am currently outside the U.S.?
Yes, through consular processing, you can apply for a green card while outside the U.S.
