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.
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 non immigrant 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 labour 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.
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.
