Immigrate to the U.S. with the EB-1 Green Card

Your guide to the employment-based first preference (EB-1) immigrant visa

The EB-1 visa offers a pathway to U.S. permanent residency (green card) for individuals who are at the top of their field – including internationally recognized professionals, executives, and researchers. If you have extraordinary ability, the EB-1 category may be the fastest way to obtain a green card.

At Let’s Get Visa, we break down complex immigration pathways like the EB-1 so you can explore your options with confidence.


Note: We do not currently offer EB-1 petition services. This page is for informational purposes only. Contact us to learn more or be notified when services become available.

What is the EB-1 Visa?

The EB-1 is an immigrant visa category (green card) for high-achieving individuals in three main subcategories:

EB-1A: Extraordinary Ability

For individuals with sustained national or international acclaim in fields like science, education, business, arts, or athletics. Self-petition is allowed—no employer sponsorship required.

EB-1B: Outstanding Professors or Researchers

Requires international recognition, at least 3 years of teaching or research experience, and a permanent job offer from a U.S. university or qualifying institution.

EB-1C: Multinational Executives or Managers

For executives or managers transferring to a U.S. office of a multinational company. Requires 1 year of employment abroad in the last 3 years and an offer for a managerial or executive role in the U.S.

EB-1 Application Process

Each EB-1 subcategory has slightly different requirements, but here’s the general process:

1
Determine Eligibility

Confirm which EB-1 subcategory fits your background.

2
Prepare Documents

Compile evidence of qualifications (e.g., awards, publications, organizational roles, media coverage).

3
File Form I-140

Submit the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker to USCIS.

4
Priority Date Wait (if applicable)

Check the Visa Bulletin to see if a green card is immediately available.

5
Apply for Status/Visa

File Form I-485 (if in the U.S.) or apply through consular processing (if abroad).

6
Green Card Issued

Once approved, you become a U.S. permanent resident.

Who Qualifies for the EB-1 Visa?

Each subcategory has its own criteria:

EB-1A

One-Time major achievement (e.g, Pulitzer, Oscar) or at least 3 of 10 regulatory criteria (e.g., published work, high salary, judging other' work)

EB-1B

At least 2 of 6 criteria and a permanent academic job offer

EB-1C

Must be in a managerial/executive role and meet L-1-like eligibility

Stay Informed as EB-1 Services Expand

Be the first to know when our comprehensive EB-1 guidance services become available

Why Consider the EB-1 Visa?

Fast-track to Green Card 

Often no labor certification (PERM) required

Self-Petition Option (EB-1A)

No employer sponsor needed

Highly Favorable Priority Dates

Particularly for EB-1A and EB-1B

Dual Intent Allowed

You may apply while on a temporary nonimmigrant visa

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