EB-1 Green Cards

The EB-1 visa (First Preference Employment-Based) is a U.S. Green Card path for top-tier foreign nationals: those with Extraordinary Ability, Outstanding Professors/Researchers, or Multinational Executives/Managers, often called the "priority worker" visa, known for potentially faster processing as it usually bypasses labor certification (PERM). It requires proving sustained national/international acclaim (for EB-1A) or specific achievements (EB-1B/C), allowing permanent residency with benefits like no job offer needed for EB-1A, but all visas are subject to annual caps, and sometimes limits are reached, causing delays. 

Types of EB-1 Visas

  1. EB-1A: Extraordinary Ability: For individuals with sustained national or international acclaim in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics (e.g., Nobel laureates, Oscar winners).
  • No job offer or labor certification needed, but you must intend to continue working in your field in the U.S..
  1. EB-1B: Outstanding Professors & Researchers: For those internationally recognized for achievements in a specific academic field, requiring at least 3 years of teaching/research experience.
  • Requires a U.S. employer (university, research institution) and a job offer.
  1. EB-1C: Multinational Managers & Executives: For managers or executives transferred to a U.S. office of the same company (or affiliate/subsidiary) after at least one year working abroad for that company.
  • Requires a U.S. employer and a job offer. 

Key Benefits

  • No Labor Certification (PERM): Often avoids lengthy Department of Labor processes, especially EB-1A.
  • Priority Processing: Generally faster than other employment-based categories.
  • Permanent Residency: Leads directly to a U.S. Green Card. 

Application Process

  1. File Form I-140: Submit the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
  2. Adjustment of Status (if in U.S.): File Form I-485 after I-140 approval and visa availability.
  3. Consular Processing (if abroad): Attend an interview at a U.S. Embassy/Consulate. 

Eligibility Proof (for EB-1A)

You must meet at least 3 of 10 criteria (or show a major award): 

  • Receipt of lesser nationally/internationally recognized awards.
  • Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievements.
  • Published material about you in professional publications.
  • Judging the work of others.
  • Major contributions to your field.
  • Authorship of scholarly articles.
  • Work displayed at artistic exhibitions.
  • Critical role in distinguished organizations.
  • High salary/remuneration.
  • Commercial success in performing arts.