A deep dive into the EB-1A green card — a U.S. immigration option for top-performing professionals, founders, and creatives. Learn how to qualify, how it compares to EB-1B and NIW, and why it’s one of the fastest routes to a green card.
The EB-1A green card is one of the fastest, most prestigious U.S. immigration paths for individuals with extraordinary ability in fields like science, business, arts, or athletics. This guide explains who qualifies, how to meet USCIS criteria, and why EB-1A is often the best option for high achievers — especially Indian nationals facing long green card backlogs. Whether you're on an H-1B, building a startup, or leading in your profession, EB-1A could be your direct route to permanent residency — no job offer required.
EB-1A is a first-preference U.S. green card category reserved for people who have achieved exceptional success in their fields. You don’t need a job offer — you can self-petition, which is a major advantage over most employment-based green cards.
Unlike nonimmigrant visas, this is a path to permanent residency. It's designed for professionals who have made a name for themselves through achievements that are recognized nationally or internationally.
EB-1A has no labor certification requirement, making it a faster and more flexible route.
To qualify for EB-1A, you must meet at least 3 out of 10 criteria set by USCIS, or show a single major international award. Some of the key criteria include:
The qualification criteria is designed to be all-encompassing for different industries and fields.
No one fits all criteria.
Beyond Border has helped many clients build their profiles to meet USCIS adjudication standards — even those without traditional accolades. Speak to one of our immigration advisors to learn more.
If you’re a founder, artist, or innovator, EB-1A gives you independence and prestige — but has a higher standard. NIW is a backup if you fall short on EB-1A acclaim.
The process starts by filing Form I-140 with USCIS. You'll submit evidence for 3+ criteria, along with expert recommendation letters and a legal petition brief.
Premium processing is available for EB-1A at a fee of $2,805. This speeds up the USCIS decision to 15 business days. Without premium, it could take 6–9 months. Once I-140 is approved and a visa is available, you file Form I-485 for adjustment of status (if in the U.S.) or consular processing (if abroad).
Many EB-1A applicants start on an H-1B visa. If you’ve built an impressive career, EB-1A lets you move to a green card without employer sponsorship. You can apply while still working on H-1B, and even launch your own company.
No publications? No problem — you can qualify with a high salary, leadership roles, and press. Beyond Border has guided clients in tech, marketing, and business who weren’t academics but met the EB-1A bar in other ways.
Indian nationals face visa backlogs due to high demand and per-country caps. Given the higher qualification bar, EB-1A often sees much faster recovery in the Visa Bulletin than other categories.
So while delays exist, they’re usually shorter than EB-2 or EB-3, which can be decades-long.
It is realistic assume a 2-3 years wait time, as opposed to decades for other immigration pathways, to obtain the EB-1A status.
Recent USCIS updates make EB-1A slightly more flexible:
These small changes can make a big difference. Premium processing fees have increased, but the speed is often worth it.
EB-1A is for the bold — the top 1%. But if you’ve built a career full of achievement, recognition, and impact, it’s within reach. Whether you’re an H-1B holder, founder, artist, or scholar, start documenting your wins today.
At Beyond Border, we specialize in helping extraordinary individuals tell their story, highlight the right evidence, and file a compelling EB-1A petition. We know what USCIS wants — and how to present your accomplishments in the strongest light.
.png)
