EB-1 Extraordinary Ability / Employment First Preference Visa
Employment-based first preference immigrant visa for individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, or multinational managers and executives.
~40,000 (plus unused family-sponsored visas)
Annual Cap
3 (EB-1A, EB-1B, EB-1C)
Subcategories
Not required
Labor Certification
What is the EB-1 Visa?
The EB-1 visa is the highest priority employment-based immigrant visa category, providing a direct path to U.S. permanent residency. It has three subcategories: EB-1A for individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics; EB-1B for outstanding professors and researchers; and EB-1C for multinational managers and executives. EB-1A applicants can self-petition without an employer sponsor.
Eligibility Requirements
Application Process
Determine which EB-1 subcategory applies (A, B, or C)
Compile extensive evidence of extraordinary ability, outstanding research, or managerial experience
File Form I-140 petition with USCIS (self-petition for EB-1A, employer-sponsored for EB-1B and EB-1C)
Upon approval and visa number availability, file I-485 adjustment of status or apply through consular processing
Attend biometrics appointment and interview, then receive Green Card
Duration of Stay
Permanent residency (Green Card)
Frequently Asked Questions
QWhat evidence is needed for EB-1A extraordinary ability?
You must meet at least 3 of 10 criteria, including major awards, published material about you, original contributions of major significance, authorship of scholarly articles, high salary, membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement, and evidence of leading or critical roles in distinguished organizations.
QCan I self-petition for EB-1 without an employer?
Yes, but only for the EB-1A (extraordinary ability) subcategory. EB-1B (outstanding professors/researchers) and EB-1C (multinational managers/executives) both require an employer to sponsor the petition.
QHow long does EB-1 processing take?
Standard processing for Form I-140 takes 6 to 18 months. Premium processing is available for an additional $2,805 fee, which guarantees an initial response within 15 business days. Total time to Green Card depends on visa number availability and I-485 processing.
Related Visa Types
O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa
Visa for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in their field.
EB-2 Advanced Degree / National Interest Waiver Visa
Employment-based second preference immigrant visa for professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability, including the National Interest Waiver (NIW) pathway.
EB-3 Skilled Workers / Professionals Visa
Employment-based third preference immigrant visa for skilled workers with at least two years of experience, professionals with bachelor's degrees, and other workers.
U.S. Permanent Resident Card
Permanent residency in the United States, granting the right to live and work permanently.
Related Immigration Forms
Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers
Filed by U.S. employers to petition for a foreign worker to become a lawful permanent resident based on an employment-based immigrant visa category.
Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
Filed by individuals already in the U.S. to adjust their status to permanent resident (Green Card).
Application for Employment Authorization
Filed to request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for work permission in the U.S.
Application for Travel Document
Used to apply for a reentry permit, refugee travel document, or advance parole.
Do you qualify as an individual with extraordinary ability?
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