What is the U.S. EB-1 Employment-Based Green Card?
The EB-1 Green Card is an employment-based immigrant visa that allows highly skilled professionals, outstanding researchers, and multinational executives to obtain permanent residency (Green Card) in the U.S.
At Sahin Legal Consultancy, we provide expert legal assistance in preparing and submitting EB-1 petitions, ensuring that applicants meet the high eligibility standards required for approval.
Who is Eligible for the EB-1 Green Card?
The EB-1 Green Card is divided into three subcategories:
1. EB-1A: Individuals with Extraordinary Ability
This category is for professionals in science, arts, education, business, or athletics who have demonstrated sustained national or international acclaim.
✅ No job offer required (self-petition allowed).
✅ Must provide extensive evidence of achievements.
✅ Must meet at least 3 of the following 10 criteria:
- Major national/international awards (e.g., Nobel Prize, Pulitzer Prize).
- Membership in organizations requiring outstanding achievements.
- Published articles about you in major media.
- Judging work of others in your field.
- Original contributions to your field.
- Scholarly articles in professional journals.
- Exhibitions or showcases of your work.
- Leading/critical role in distinguished organizations.
- High salary compared to peers in your field.
- Commercial success in arts, film, or sports.
2. EB-1B: Outstanding Professors and Researchers
This category is for academics and researchers who have made significant contributions to their field.
✅ Must have at least 3 years of experience in teaching or research.
✅ Must be offered a tenure-track or permanent research position at a U.S. university or research institution.
✅ Must meet at least 2 of the following 6 criteria:
- Major awards or prizes for academic achievement.
- Membership in prestigious academic organizations.
- Published articles in professional journals.
- Judge/reviewer of academic work of others.
- Original contributions to academic research.
- Authorship of books or scholarly articles.
3. EB-1C: Multinational Executives and Managers
This category is for executives and managers of multinational companies transferring to a U.S. office of their company.
✅ Must have worked for the company for at least 1 year in the past 3 years.
✅ The U.S. employer must petition on behalf of the applicant.
✅ The applicant must hold a managerial or executive role.
Step-by-Step Guide to the EB-1 Green Card Process
Step 1: Determine Eligibility & Gather Evidence
- Identify the correct EB-1 subcategory.
- Collect strong supporting documents (awards, publications, job offers, research contributions, etc.).
Step 2: File Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)
- EB-1A applicants can self-petition (file their own application).
- EB-1B and EB-1C applicants need a U.S. employer to file Form I-140.
- Premium Processing available (15-day decision for an additional fee).
Step 3: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
- If already in the U.S., file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status).
- If outside the U.S., attend an interview at a U.S. consulate in your home country.
Step 4: Biometrics and Interview
- Attend biometric appointment (fingerprints, photo, signature).
- Attend Green Card interview (if required by USCIS).
Step 5: Receive Your Green Card
- If approved, you will receive a permanent resident card (Green Card) in the mail.
Advantages of the EB-1 Green Card
✔️ No Labor Certification Required – Faster processing compared to EB-2 and EB-3.
✔️ Self-Petition Allowed (for EB-1A) – No employer sponsorship needed.
✔️ Fast Processing – Priority processing for high-skilled professionals.
✔️ Pathway to U.S. Citizenship – Eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship after 5 years.
✔️ Family Benefits – Spouse and children under 21 can also obtain Green Cards.
Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them
❌ Insufficient Evidence of Extraordinary Ability (EB-1A)
Solution: Submit strong documentation (major awards, media coverage, peer reviews, recommendation letters).
❌ Employer Does Not Qualify for EB-1C Sponsorship
Solution: Ensure the company has a qualifying relationship (parent, subsidiary, affiliate) with a U.S. office.
❌ High Scrutiny for EB-1B Outstanding Researchers
Solution: Provide strong academic citations, letters of recommendation, and research contributions.
FAQs About the EB-1 Green Card
Q1: How long does it take to process an EB-1 Green Card?
- EB-1 I-140 petition typically takes 4-8 months (faster with Premium Processing).
- Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) takes 8-14 months.
Q2: Can I apply for an EB-1 Green Card without a job offer?
- Yes, EB-1A applicants can self-petition (job offer not required).
- EB-1B and EB-1C require employer sponsorship.
Q3: What is the success rate for EB-1 applications?
- EB-1A: Lower approval rate (requires strong evidence of extraordinary ability).
- EB-1B: Moderate approval rate (must prove research excellence).
- EB-1C: Higher approval rate (if the company meets USCIS criteria).
Q4: Can my spouse and children also get Green Cards?
- Yes, spouses and children under 21 qualify for derivative Green Cards.
Q5: Can I upgrade from an EB-2 or EB-3 to EB-1?
- Yes, if you meet EB-1A or EB-1B criteria, you can file a new I-140 petition under EB-1.
Why Choose Sahin Legal Consultancy for Your EB-1 Application?
✅ Expert Legal Guidance – We help you build a strong EB-1 petition.
✅ Comprehensive Document Preparation – We assist with evidence collection and legal arguments.
✅ Visa Interview Coaching – We prepare you for USCIS scrutiny and potential RFEs (Requests for Evidence).
✅ Faster Processing Support – We help with Premium Processing requests to speed up your application.
📞 Call us today for expert EB-1 visa assistance!
📍 Based in London – Assisting professionals, researchers, and executives worldwide.
