Amazon green card sponsorship refers to Amazon’s process of sponsoring eligible foreign employees for U.S. permanent residence through employment-based immigrant visa categories.
As one of the largest technology employers in the United States, Amazon regularly files employment-based immigrant petitions for qualified workers in technical, engineering, and corporate roles.
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Does Amazon Sponsor Green Cards?
Yes. Amazon green card sponsorship is available for eligible employees who meet immigration requirements and hold qualifying roles. Sponsorship typically follows a period of employment under a temporary work visa such as H1B or L-1.
Approval depends on job classification, qualifications, and visa category availability.
Common Green Card Categories Used by Amazon
EB-2 – Advanced Degree Professionals
- Requires a master’s degree or higher (or bachelor’s plus experience)
- Often used for engineers and technical professionals
EB-3 – Skilled Workers and Professionals
- Requires at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
- Common for software developers and analysts
EB-1C – Multinational Managers
- Used for eligible managers transferred from international offices
The category chosen depends on the employee’s qualifications and job role.
Amazon Green Card Sponsorship Process
- Step 1: Employer evaluates eligibility
- Step 2: PERM labor certification (if required)
- Step 3: File Form I-140 immigrant petition
- Step 4: Wait for priority date to become current
- Step 5: File Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) or consular processing
- Step 6: Receive permanent resident approval
Processing timelines vary depending on visa category and country of birth.
PERM Labor Certification
In most cases, Amazon green card sponsorship requires completion of the PERM labor certification process. This step confirms that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position.
Some categories, such as EB-1C, do not require PERM.
Eligibility Requirements
Employees seeking Amazon green card sponsorship must:
- Hold a qualifying full-time position
- Meet educational and experience requirements
- Maintain lawful immigration status
- Pass background and medical checks
Amazon must also demonstrate its ability to pay the offered wage.
How Long Does It Take?
Green card processing can take several months to multiple years depending on:
- Visa category
- PERM processing time
- Priority date backlog
- Country of chargeability
Backlogs may be longer for certain countries.
Can International Students Be Sponsored?
Yes. Many employees begin under F1 OPT or H1B status before transitioning into Amazon green card sponsorship after securing long-term employment.
Costs and Employer Responsibility
Under U.S. immigration law, employers must pay certain costs associated with PERM and immigrant petition filing. Employees may be responsible for adjustment of status or related personal expenses.
Common Challenges
- PERM recruitment delays
- Visa bulletin retrogression
- Documentation requirements
- Changes in immigration regulations
Maintaining accurate records and legal compliance is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Amazon automatically sponsor green cards?
No. Sponsorship is typically based on role, performance, and business needs.
How soon can sponsorship begin?
Timing depends on internal policies and employee status, but it often begins after securing long-term employment.
Can sponsorship be withdrawn?
Yes. Employment termination or policy changes may affect sponsorship status.
Final Thoughts
Amazon green card sponsorship offers skilled professionals a pathway to permanent residence in the United States. Meeting qualification standards and maintaining strong employment performance significantly improve approval prospects.