How to Apply for an American EB-1 Visa

Designed for the best of the best, the EB-1 is one of the fastest ways to get a green card—with fewer hurdles than most other immigration routes.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the EB-1 visa, including eligibility, categories, application steps, timelines, and expert tips to boost your approval odds.

Let’s get started.

What is the EB-1 Visa?

The EB-1 is a first-preference employment-based immigrant visa. Unlike temporary work visas like the H-1B, the EB-1 puts you on a direct path to U.S. permanent residency (green card).

It’s built for individuals who stand out in their careers—think top researchers, industry leaders, award-winning professionals, and executives of multinational corporations.

The EB-1 is part of the U.S. green card system and does not require labor certification (PERM), making it faster than other employment-based categories.

Why Choose the EB-1 Visa?

Here are a few reasons why many high-achieving professionals aim for the EB-1:

• No labor certification required

• Faster processing time than other green cards

• Self-petition available under EB-1A (no employer needed)

• Spouse and children can get green cards too

• Strong recognition of your work on an international level

If you qualify, it’s one of the most efficient paths to the U.S.

Who Is Eligible for the EB-1 Visa?

The EB-1 is available to three categories of applicants:

a. EB-1A – Individuals with Extraordinary Ability

You’ve reached the top of your field in the arts, sciences, education, business, or athletics. You don’t need a job offer—you can self-petition.

b. EB-1B – Outstanding Professors and Researchers

You have international recognition for your academic work and a job offer from a U.S. university or research institution.

c. EB-1C – Multinational Executives and Managers

You’ve been working for a multinational company for at least 1 of the last 3 years and are being transferred to a U.S. branch in a leadership role.

EB-1A Requirements (Extraordinary Ability)

To qualify for EB-1A, you must demonstrate a level of achievement that puts you in a small percentage of professionals in your field.

You need to meet at least 3 out of these 10 criteria (or show one-time major achievement like a Nobel Prize):

• National/international awards

• Membership in exclusive associations

• Published material about you in major media

• Judging others’ work in your field

• Major contributions to your field

• Scholarly or professional articles

• Exhibitions or showcases

• Leading role in organizations

• High salary

• Commercial success in performing arts

EB-1B Requirements (Professors and Researchers)

To qualify for EB-1B, you must:

• Have at least 3 years of teaching or research experience

• Be recognized internationally in your field

• Have a permanent job offer from a U.S. university or research institution

You also need to meet at least 2 of the following:

• Major awards

• Membership in associations requiring excellence

• Published material about your work

• Judge the work of others

• Original scientific or scholarly contributions

• Authorship of academic books/articles

EB-1C Requirements (Executives and Managers)

To qualify for EB-1C, you must:

• Have worked outside the U.S. for a multinational company for 1 of the last 3 years

• Be coming to the U.S. to work in an executive or managerial role

• Have a job offer from the U.S. office of the same company

This route is great for global corporate leaders transitioning to U.S. operations.

Key Benefits of the EB-1 Visa

Let’s recap why EB-1 stands out from other U.S. immigration routes:

• Premium processing available (15-day response with extra fee)

• No job offer needed for EB-1A

• Faster green card timeline

• Covers your spouse and children under 21

• More predictable than H-1B (no lottery system)

How to Apply for the EB-1 Visa

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

1. Determine your EB-1 category (A, B, or C)

2. Collect strong supporting evidence

3. File Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)

4. Wait for approval

5. If inside the U.S., file Form I-485 for adjustment of status

6. If outside the U.S., go through consular processing at a U.S. embassy

What Documents Will You Need?

While the exact documents vary by category, here’s a general list:

• Valid passport

• Form I-140

• Evidence of eligibility (awards, media, publications, etc.)

• Letters of recommendation or support

• Job offer letter (EB-1B, EB-1C)

• Proof of work history

• Medical exam (for green card stage)

Premium Processing: Is It Worth It?

Yes—premium processing is a popular add-on.

For $2,805, USCIS will respond to your I-140 within 15 calendar days.

This can significantly speed up your journey if time is a factor.

Available for:

• EB-1A

• EB-1B

(Not available for EB-1C at the time of writing)

Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing

Once your I-140 is approved, you can move forward with getting your green card.

• Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): For applicants already in the U.S. on another visa

• Consular Processing (DS-260): For applicants living abroad, handled at a U.S. embassy

Both lead to permanent residency but involve different paperwork and timelines.

How Long Does the EB-1 Process Take?

Here’s a rough timeline (varies by case):

I-140 (regular) 6–9 months

I-140 (premium) 15 days

I-485 or DS-260 6–12 months

Total (with premium) 8–14 months average

Backlogs may occur depending on your country of origin.

EB-1 Visa Costs

Here’s a breakdown of common fees:

Form I-140 $700

Premium Processing (optional) $2,805

Adjustment of Status (I-485) $1,140 + $85 biometrics

Consular Processing (DS-260) ~$325

Medical exam Varies by clinic

Costs for dependents are additional.

Common Reasons for EB-1 Denial

Avoid these common mistakes:

• Weak or insufficient evidence

• Lack of clear structure in documentation

• Inconsistent claims or exaggeration

• Not meeting the minimum criteria

• Poorly written or vague letters of recommendation

Pro tip: Organize your evidence clearly, like a portfolio, and back everything with real proof.

Final Tips for a Successful EB-1 Application

• Start early—gathering evidence takes time

• Use well-documented examples of your work

• Don’t rush the petition—quality matters

• Hire an immigration attorney if unsure (especially for EB-1A or EB-1C)

• Prepare your dependents’ paperwork alongside yours

• Keep an eye on USCIS updates and policy changes

Conclusion

The EB-1 visa is more than just a fast track to a green card—it’s a recognition of your hard-earned success and a gateway to building your future in the U.S.

If you’ve achieved extraordinary results, led international teams, or made a name for yourself in your field, now could be the perfect time to take the next step.

The process may seem complex, but with the right preparation and guidance, your American dream is well within reach.