Employment-Based Green Card for Priority Workers
The EB-1 visa is a U.S. immigrant visa that grants lawful permanent residence (green card) to individuals with extraordinary abilities, outstanding academic or research achievements, or executive/managerial roles in multinational companies. It falls under the first preference employment-based category, offering faster processing and no labor certification requirement.
The EB-1 is especially appealing because it allows self-petition in certain categories, such as those applying under extraordinary ability, and offers a direct route to a green card. It’s ideal for individuals seeking to contribute to their field in the U.S. on a permanent basis.
Who Qualifies for an EB-1 Visa?
EB-1A – Persons with Extraordinary Ability
For individuals in science, arts, education, business, or athletics who have demonstrated sustained national or international acclaim. No job offer is required, and applicants can self-petition.
- Evidence may include:
- Major international awards (e.g., Nobel Prize, Pulitzer)
- Published work or original contributions
- Media coverage, memberships, or judging others’ work
EB-1B – Outstanding Professors and Researchers
For internationally recognized academics with at least 3 years of teaching or research experience. A U.S. university or research institution must provide a job offer.
- Evidence may include:
- Academic publications and citations
- Research achievements or international awards
- Evidence of significant contributions to the field
EB-1C – Multinational Executives or Managers
For executives or managers employed outside the U.S. for at least 1 of the past 3 years, transferring to a U.S. branch of the same company.
- Requirements include:
- Proof of executive or managerial capacity
- Documented relationship between U.S. and foreign company
- Full-time employment and decision-making authority
EB-1 Visa Eligibility Criteria
- To be eligible for an EB-1 visa, applicants must demonstrate:
- Extraordinary ability or international recognition in their field
- A job offer from a U.S. employer (for EB-1B and EB-1C)
- Managerial or executive experience (for EB-1C)
- Documented proof of achievements, research, or leadership
- A plan to continue work in their field upon U.S. immigration
Benefits of the EB-1 Visa
- No PERM labor certification required
- Premium processing available
- Faster green card approval compared to EB-2 and EB-3
- Spouses and children (under 21) also become permanent residents
- EB-1A applicants may self-petition without employer sponsorship
The EB-1 visa is known for its high-priority processing and shorter wait times. This makes it an ideal choice for professionals from countries with significant visa backlogs.
Required Documents for EB-1 Petition
- Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)
- Detailed résumé or curriculum vitae (CV)
- Recommendation or reference letters
- Evidence of awards, publications, citations, or media coverage
- Job offer letter (not required for EB-1A)
Need Help With Your EB-1 Application?
At Exitbase, our expert immigration consultants specialize in preparing strong EB-1 petitions. Whether you’re a researcher, professor, scientist, or executive, we help you present your qualifications effectively and meet all U.S. immigration requirements.
Book a Free Consultation Today or Contact Our Team to begin your U.S. green card journey with confidence.
