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For Professionals with Exceptional and Rare Abilities
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What is the EB-1 Visa?

The EB-1 visa is a first-preference employment-based green card designed for individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, or multinational executives and managers. Unlike many other employment-based green cards, EB-1 applicants do not need labor certification (PERM), making it one of the fastest routes to U.S. permanent residency.

The EB-1 visa is divided into three subcategories:

  1. EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability): For individuals with outstanding achievements in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.
  2. EB-1B (Outstanding Professors and Researchers): For those recognized internationally for their academic contributions.
  3. EB-1C (Multinational Executives and Managers): For managers and executives transferring within multinational companies.

EB-1 Visa Eligibility Requirements

  1. EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) Requirements

To qualify, you must demonstrate extraordinary ability in your field by meeting at least three of the following criteria or providing evidence of a one-time achievement (e.g., a major award like a Nobel Prize or an Oscar):

  • National or international recognition (e.g., awards, media features)
  • Published material about you in professional or trade publications
  • Membership in associations that require outstanding achievement
  • Participation as a judge of others’ work in your field
  • Original contributions of major significance
  • Scholarly articles or publications
  • High salary compared to peers
  • Artistic exhibitions or performances
  • Leading roles in distinguished organizations
  1. EB-1B (Outstanding Professors and Researchers) Requirements

To qualify, you must:

  • Have at least three years of experience in teaching or research
  • Be recognized internationally as an expert
  • Have a job offer from a U.S. employer (tenure-track position or permanent research role)
  • Meet at least two of the following criteria:
    • Major awards or recognition for achievements
    • Membership in prestigious professional associations
    • Published research in scholarly journals
    • Participation as a judge or peer reviewer
    • Significant contributions to your field
    • Authorship of scholarly books or articles
  1. EB-1C (Multinational Executives and Managers) Requirements

To qualify, you must:

  • Have been employed outside the U.S. in a managerial or executive role for at least one year in the past three years
  • Be coming to the U.S. to work in a similar capacity for a related U.S. company
  • The U.S. company must have been operational for at least one year

EB-1 Green Card Processing Time

The processing time varies depending on USCIS workload, but general estimates are:

  • Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker): 6-12 months
  • Premium Processing (Optional for EB-1A & EB-1B): 45 calendar days
  • Adjustment of Status (Form I-485, if applying within the U.S.): 8-14 months
  • Consular Processing (If outside the U.S.): 6-12 months after I-140 approval

EB-1 Visa Documents Checklist

Required Documents for EB-1A:

  • Form I-140 petition
  • Personal statement detailing extraordinary ability
  • Evidence of at least three eligibility criteria
  • Letters of recommendation from industry experts
  • Published articles, patents, or citations
  • Proof of awards, honors, or media recognition
  • Employment contracts or business plans (if applicable)

Required Documents for EB-1B:

  • Job offer letter from a U.S. employer
  • Form I-140 petition
  • Letters of recommendation from peers and employers
  • Evidence of academic contributions and publications
  • Proof of major awards or memberships in professional organizations

Required Documents for EB-1C:

  • Job offer letter from a U.S. company
  • Organizational chart proving managerial/executive role
  • Evidence of multinational company’s operational history
  • Payroll records showing managerial experience outside the U.S.
  • Tax returns or financial statements of the company

Letters of Recommendation

Strong letters of recommendation from industry experts, former employers, or peers enhance your EB-1 case. The letters should:

  • Highlight your achievements and contributions
  • Explain how your work is internationally recognized
  • Support your claim of extraordinary ability or research impact

How to Prove Extraordinary Ability for EB-1A

  • Submit peer-reviewed articles, research citations, or patents
  • Show evidence of media features, awards, or keynote speaker roles
  • Demonstrate high salary, leadership positions, or membership in elite associations
  • Provide testimonials from industry leaders

EB-1 Visa Cost and Filing Fees

  • Form I-140 Filing Fee: $700
  • Premium Processing (Optional for EB-1A & EB-1B): $2,500
  • Adjustment of Status (Form I-485):
    • Adults (14+ years old): $1,140 (+$85 biometrics)
    • Children (Under 14): $750
  • Medical Examination Fees: Varies ($200-$500)
  • Attorney Fees (if applicable): $3,000 – $8,000

Common Reasons for EB-1 Denial

  • Insufficient documentation proving extraordinary ability
  • Weak letters of recommendation
  • Lack of evidence showing significant contributions to the field
  • Inability to meet at least three eligibility criteria

What to Do in Case of Denial

If your EB-1 petition is denied, you can:

  • File a Motion to Reconsider or Reopen if new evidence is available
  • Submit a new petition with improved supporting documents
  • Appeal to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO)
  • Consider alternative visa options, such as EB-2 NIW or O-1 visa

EB-1 Green Card FAQs

Yes, EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) applicants can self-petition.

Typically 8-14 months, depending on USCIS processing times.

Yes, for EB-1A and EB-1B, but not for EB-1C.

Yes, if you have valid work authorization.

Yes, dependents (spouse & children under 21) can apply for green cards under EB-1.

Why Choose a Professional Consultant for Your EB-1 Visa?

Filing an EB-1 green card petition requires strong documentation, and a single error can result in delays or denials. A professional consultant or immigration attorney can:

  • Ensure compliance with USCIS guidelines
  • Help draft persuasive recommendation letters
  • Strengthen your case with proper documentation
  • Increase approval chances

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Start Your EB-1 Green Card Journey Today!

If you're ready to apply for an EB-1 visa, our experienced immigration consultants can guide you through every step. Schedule a free eligibility evaluation today

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