EB-1 Visa Eligibility Requirements and Application Process

The EB-1 immigrant visa category is designed for individuals who have reached the pinnacle of their professional fields, offering a streamlined path to U.S. permanent residency. This classification is divided into three primary subcategories Extraordinary Ability, Outstanding Professors and Researchers, and Certain Multinational Managers or Executives—each with distinct eligibility criteria and evidence requirements.

Extraordinary Ability

This subcategory is intended for individuals who can demonstrate exceptional skill and recognition in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics through sustained national or international acclaim.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must satisfy at least 3 of the 10 official USCIS criteria (listed below) or present evidence of a major, one-time achievement such as a Pulitzer Prize, Academy Award, or Olympic Medal.

• Must show intent to continue working in the area of expertise.

• No job offer or labor certification is required.

Recognized Evidence Criteria Include:

1. Awards or prizes of national/international distinction.

2. Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement.

3. Published material in reputable trade or professional media discussing your work.

4. Invitations to judge the work of others.

5. Original contributions of major significance in your field.

6. Authorship of scholarly articles in reputable journals or media.

7. Work showcased in exhibitions or displays.

8. Leadership roles in prestigious organizations.

9. Earning a high salary compared to peers.

10. Commercial success in the performing arts.

Outstanding Professors and Researchers

Designed for internationally recognized academics with significant accomplishments in their respective fields.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must have at least three years of experience in teaching or research within the field.

• Must enter the U.S. to pursue tenure, tenure-track, or an equivalent research role at a university, higher education institution, or qualified private employer.

• Must meet at least 2 of the 6 documentary evidence criteria (see below).

• Requires an official job offer; labor certification is not required.

Acceptable Evidence Includes:

1. Receipt of major awards for outstanding academic achievement.

2. Membership in associations with rigorous entry standards for excellence.

3. Published works about the applicant’s academic contributions.

4. Service as a judge of others’ academic work.

5. Original research contributions of notable impact.

6. Authorship of scholarly books or articles in internationally recognized journals.

Certain Multinational Managers or Executives

For senior-level professionals transferring from a related foreign company to a U.S.-based branch, affiliate, or subsidiary.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must have worked abroad in a managerial or executive role for at least one year within the last three years before the petition (or before the most recent lawful admission to the U.S. if already working for the U.S. employer).

• The U.S. petitioner must have been operating for at least one year and maintain a qualifying corporate relationship with the foreign employer.

• Must demonstrate intent to continue working in an executive or managerial capacity.

• No labor certification is required.

Application Procedure

• Extraordinary Ability: Individuals may self-petition by filing Form I-140 (Petition for Alien Worker).

• Outstanding Professors/Researchers & Multinational Managers/Executives: The U.S. employer must file Form I-140 on behalf of the applicant and prove the ability to pay the offered wage from the priority date. Acceptable proof includes annual reports, federal tax returns, or audited financial statements.

Family Eligibility

Approved EB-1 applicants may include spouses and unmarried children under 21 in their petition. Eligible dependents may apply for entry under E-14 or E-15 immigrant status.