🇺🇸 Talent visa · USA EB-1
EB-1 visa USA: a green card for extraordinary professionals
A direct pathway to permanent residence in the US for outstanding scientists, executives and professionals — without an employer or a labor market test.
The EB-1 visa is an immigrant program for extraordinary professionals and top talent that provides a direct route to a US green card. It does not require labor certification (PERM) and in some categories does not require a US employer.
Legal framework
US immigration law divides the EB-1 visa into three subcategories, each with its own criteria.
EB-1A — extraordinary ability
Requires national or international acclaim in sciences, arts, education, business or athletics: either a major international award or at least 3 of 10 USCIS criteria (authorship of scholarly work, membership in prestigious associations, judging, high income, etc.). No employer is required — applicants may self-petition.
EB-1B — outstanding professors and researchers
Requires international recognition for academic achievements, at least 3 years of teaching or research experience, an offer of a permanent position at a US university or research institution, plus 2 of 6 USCIS criteria.
EB-1C — multinational managers and executives
Requires at least 1 year in a managerial or executive role abroad and a transfer to a similar position at the US branch of the same company, which must have a confirmed structure in both the US and abroad.
When filing Form I-140 it is important to document achievements thoroughly for the chosen category. If your public profile is not yet strong, additional case-building may be needed.
Benefits of the EB-1 visa
Immediate green card
An EB-1 holder immediately gains the right to live and work in the US as a permanent resident, and after 5 years may apply for citizenship.
Self-petition without an employer
Under EB-1A, applicants may file the petition themselves, without a sponsor or a labor market test.
Minimal backlogs
EB-1 usually has no long quotas: I-140 adjudication takes a few months, and can be expedited for a fee.
Green card for the whole family
A spouse and unmarried children under 21 are included in the petition and receive a green card alongside the applicant.
How to get the EB-1 visa: step by step
Determine your category
Choose EB-1A, EB-1B or EB-1C and gather evidence: diplomas, publications, awards, recommendation letters.
Prepare Form I-140
Complete Form I-140 and attach supporting documents. For EB-1A you file the package yourself.
Get the petition approved
USCIS reviews the petition in about 3–7 months, faster for a fee. Once approved you receive an Approval Notice.
Complete biometrics and a medical exam
Submit fingerprints, photo and signature, and undergo a medical exam for the visa package.
Interview and visa
Attend an interview at a US embassy or USCIS office. After a successful interview you become a permanent resident.
FAQ
What is the EB-1 visa?
Is an employer required for EB-1A?
Can the whole family get a green card?
Can an ordinary professional qualify for EB-1?
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