Let’s Find the Visa Path That Fits You
There are three main visa and green card paths based on extraordinary ability and achievement: the O-1, EB-1 and EB-2 NIW. Each has its own criteria and process. Compare the three below and choose the one that fits you best.
Extraordinary Ability Visa
A temporary work visa for professionals with outstanding achievements in science, the arts, business or athletics.
- Requires a job offer/sponsor
- Time-limited, renewable
- At least 3 of 8 criteria
Priority Category Green Card
Permanent residence directly through extraordinary ability (EB-1A), outstanding researcher (EB-1B) or multinational manager (EB-1C) status.
- No job offer needed for EB-1A
- Direct green card
- At least 3 of 10 criteria
National Interest Waiver
A green card path for work that serves the national interest of the United States, with no job offer or labor certification required.
- No job offer or sponsor required
- Direct green card
- Dhanasar three-prong test
Which Category Is Right for Me?
Most professionals start out working temporarily on an O-1 visa, then move to permanent residence with an EB-1 or EB-2 NIW green card. If you want to apply on your own without employer sponsorship, EB-1A or EB-2 NIW may fit; if you have top-level recognition in your field, EB-1A; if you can show that your work has national importance, EB-2 NIW may be the better choice. Let’s find the right path together.
Request a Free AssessmentA practical guide to the O-1, EB-1 and EB-2 NIW talent visas.