What Is the EB-1 Visa?
The EB-1 is the first-preference employment-based green card category. People with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business or athletics can apply for it directly, without a job offer or labor certification.
Who Can Apply?
The EB-1 category is divided into three subgroups: EB-1A (extraordinary ability: you can file on your own behalf as a self-petition, with no employer sponsorship or job offer required), EB-1B (outstanding professors and researchers: sponsorship from a university or institution is required) and EB-1C (multinational executives and managers). On this page I focus on the natural next step after the O-1, EB-1A . This category provides a green card directly and is not a temporary visa.
What USCIS Evaluates: The 10 Criteria of EB-1A
For an EB-1A petition, USCIS looks for at least 3 of the 10 criteria below. Once the criteria are met, USCIS makes a second assessment called the “final merits determination,” weighing as a whole whether you are at the very top of your field.
The Application Process, Step by Step
Building the Evidence Inventory
Map the awards, media coverage, memberships and income evidence in your career to the criteria they satisfy.
Building Visibility
Strengthen weaker evidence areas through media and content work.
Preparing the I-140 Petition
Working with your immigration attorney to prepare the immigrant petition and supporting documents.
Filing and Follow-Up
Submitting to USCIS, tracking your priority date and monitoring the case throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does EB-1A require employer sponsorship?
No. EB-1A can be filed on your own behalf (self-petition); no job offer or employer sponsorship is required.
What is the difference between EB-1 and O-1?
The O-1 is a temporary work visa that is renewed for set periods; the EB-1 provides permanent residence (a green card) directly.
Let’s Evaluate Your EB-1 Eligibility
Let’s talk about your EB-1A eligibility in a free 15-minute call.
Free AssessmentA practical guide to the O-1, EB-1 and EB-2 NIW talent visas.