Atlanta United fans have become familiar with the intricate rules and regulations of MLS. From TAM and GAM to SuperDraft and Designated Players, the club has managed to build a talented squad within the strict confines of the league. One of the many challenges faced by Darren Eales and his team is the limitation on the number of foreign players allowed on the roster. Each MLS team is given eight slots for internationals. However, there are ways to make room for more foreign players, such as trading for slots or acquiring green cards.
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Green card acquisition has been an effective strategy for Atlanta United. Recently, the club announced that Romario Williams and Hector Villalba received their green cards, while Chris McCann obtained his last season. The team is currently working on obtaining one for Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, and there are potential plans to secure more for players like Josef Martinez. But what exactly is the process of acquiring a green card? Is it difficult? How long does it take? Let’s dive into the complex world of immigration law to find out.
Understanding the Green Card Application Process
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When soccer players arrive in the U.S., they are typically on a P visa that requires team sponsorship. International professional leagues, like Atlanta United, have certain advantages in this regard. According to immigration attorney Joseph Rosen, most professional players eventually apply for an EB1-A green card, which is reserved for individuals recognized as exceptional in their professional field within the arts, sciences, or sports.
To begin the EB1-A green card application process, the team gathers documentation to prove the player’s exceptional abilities. This includes letters from former teammates and coaches, media mentions, individual and team accomplishments, and recommendations from the player’s home country’s soccer federation. The goal is to showcase the player’s standing in the world of soccer.
Documenting Individual Accomplishments
The most crucial and time-consuming part of the process is documenting the player’s individual accomplishments. Each application is evaluated based on the quality of the submitted documentation. Rosen emphasizes that the biggest delay often stems from gathering all the materials required to demonstrate the player’s expertise.
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Once all the paperwork is compiled, the team submits an I-140 form, while the player files an I-485 Adjustment of Status form. As of this year, applicants are also required to undergo a personal interview at the USCIS field office in Atlanta. The wait time for the decision is relatively short, especially if the team pays the “premium processing” fee of $3,200.
Benefits for the Team and Player
The application process is relatively straightforward and beneficial for both the team and the player. Once the green card is obtained, the player can stay in the U.S. even after leaving the team. This flexibility is valuable for international players who may want to continue their lives in the country.
However, with only six international slots remaining on the roster, the team needs to act quickly. Atlanta United initially had eight slots but traded some to other teams. It’s essential to carefully manage the remaining spots to maximize the team’s international talent.
FAQs
Q: How many international slots does each MLS team have?
A: Each MLS team is given eight slots for international players.
Q: What is the EB1-A green card?
A: The EB1-A green card is reserved for individuals recognized as exceptional in their professional field within the arts, sciences, or sports.
Q: How long does the green card application process typically take?
A: Assuming the team pays the “premium processing” fee, the wait time for a decision is usually a few months.
Conclusion
Acquiring green cards for MLS players is a significant aspect of roster management. Atlanta United has utilized this strategy effectively to expand their international talent pool. The application process involves gathering extensive documentation to demonstrate the player’s exceptional abilities. Once obtained, the green card offers benefits to both the team and the player. However, with limited international slots available, careful planning is necessary to optimize the team’s roster composition. For more information about MLS and player statistics, visit Pesstatsdatabase.
Nguồn: https://www.pesstatsdatabase.com
Danh mục: Sport
