Explore the EB1 category for green cards and learn which subcategory—EB1-A, EB1-B, or EB1-C—is right for your career. Faster U.S. residency starts with the right path and expert support.
If you’re looking for one of the fastest and most prestigious paths to U.S. permanent residency, the EB1 category for green card is one of the best options. It’s designed for individuals who have reached the top of their field—whether in science, research, business leadership, or the arts.
But EB1 isn’t a one-size-fits-all visa. There are three EB1 green card options—EB1-A, EB1-B, and EB1-C—each with its own requirements. Selecting the wrong category can lead to delays, RFEs (Requests for Evidence), or even denial. So, how do you know which EB1 path fits your extraordinary journey? Let’s break it down clearly and help you choose the right one.
The EB1 category for green card is the first-preference employment-based visa under U.S. immigration law. It’s one of the fastest ways to become a permanent resident because it doesn’t require PERM labor certification—a process required for most other employment-based visas.
The EB1 visa has three subcategories: EB1-A (Extraordinary Ability), EB1-B (Outstanding Professors and Researchers), and EB1-C (Multinational Managers and Executives).
All EB1 green card applicants must file Form I-140 with USCIS. Depending on your category, you may also file Form I-485 for adjustment of status or complete consular processing.
This category is popular because it’s faster than EB2 or EB3, especially for highly backlogged countries like India and China. Many EB1 cases also qualify for premium processing, which allows USCIS to make a decision in just 15 days.
If you’ve built a career with international acclaim—or you’re on the path to it—EB1-A might be your ideal route. This category is meant for individuals with extraordinary ability in their field.
Scientists with ground breaking research publications, artists or filmmakers with major international awards, Olympic-level athletes, or entrepreneurs featured in prominent media are all strong candidates.
What makes EB1-A unique is that you don’t need a job offer or employer sponsorship. It’s a self-petition green card, meaning you can apply independently if you meet the criteria.
To qualify, you must show evidence such as major awards like a Nobel Prize or Olympic medals, national or international media coverage, original contributions of major significance in your field, or membership in exclusive organizations that require outstanding achievements.
EB1-A is ideal for freelancers, startup founders, or individuals with a globally recognized personal brand.
If you want to know whether your profile meets the criteria for EB1-A, Beyond Border can evaluate your case and provide expert guidance. You can also learn more about EB1-A eligibility directly from USCIS.
If you’re in academia or research, EB1-B could be the best fit. This category requires a permanent job offer from a U.S. university or research institution, at least three years of teaching or research experience, and proof of international recognition for your academic work.
EB1-B is perfect for PhD holders, postdocs, and senior researchers with peer-reviewed publications, high citation counts, and conference invitations.
Unlike EB1-A, you cannot self-petition for EB1-B. Your U.S. employer must sponsor you by filing Form I-140 on your behalf.
This subcategory is especially popular among H-1B visa holders in academia because it provides a direct path to a green card without labour certification.
For official requirements and detailed eligibility criteria, you can refer to USCIS EB1-B guidelines.
Already working as a senior executive or manager for a multinational company? EB1-C is designed for you.
To qualify, you must have worked at least one year in an overseas managerial or executive role. Your employer must have a qualifying relationship between its U.S. office and the foreign office, such as being a branch, affiliate, or subsidiary. You also must be moving into a similar managerial or executive role in the U.S.
Most EB1-C applicants are already in the U.S. on L-1A visas and then transition directly to a green card without labor certification.
This category is ideal for corporate leaders, directors, and senior managers who play a key role in a company’s strategic decisions. For more details, see the USCIS EB1-C requirements.
How does EB1 compare to other employment-based green cards like EB2 or EB3?
Processing times for EB1 are much faster because there’s no labor certification step. Priority dates for EB1 are often current, even for high-demand countries like India and China.
While EB1 has stricter eligibility criteria, it offers higher rewards, including faster approvals and fewer delays. If you qualify for EB1, it’s almost always better than waiting years in the EB2 or EB3 backlog.
Curious if EB1 is the better option than your current visa path? Beyond Border can help you evaluate your case and decide.
Still wondering which EB1 path fits you best?
If you have global recognition in your field, EB1-A is the way to go. If you’re an academic or researcher with a U.S. university job offer, EB1-B is your ideal category. If you’re a senior executive or manager for a multinational company, EB1-C is your best fit.
If you’re unsure which category suits your profile, don’t guess—selecting the wrong category can cost time and money. Not sure which EB1 fits your profile? Get a free case evaluation from Beyond Border and we’ll map out the best strategy for you.
Many applicants make mistakes when choosing the wrong EB1 subcategory.
Common errors include mismatched evidence, like submitting research citations for EB1-C or executive management proof for EB1-B, underestimating the requirements for EB1-A with minimal media coverage or few awards, applying for EB1-B without a permanent academic position, or providing weak managerial proof for EB1-C.
These mistakes often lead to RFEs or denials, so it’s crucial to seek expert help early on.
Navigating the EB1 category for green card can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Beyond Border has helped extraordinary professionals—from startup founders to researchers—secure their EB1 green cards.
Their team offers tailored case evaluations to match you with the right EB1 subcategory, expert-led petition drafting with airtight evidence strategies, and end-to-end support from filing to responding to RFEs.
Schedule a free consultation with Beyond Border today.
Can I apply for EB1 without an employer?
Yes—EB1-A allows self-petition if you can prove extraordinary ability. EB1-B and EB1-C, however, require employer sponsorship.
How long does the EB1 process take?
With premium processing, Form I-140 is decided in 15 days. Adjustment of Status or consular processing timelines vary based on USCIS workload.
Is EB1 always better than EB2 or EB3?
If you meet EB1 criteria, it’s faster and avoids the labour certification step. However, eligibility is stricter.
Can H-1B holders switch to EB1?
Yes, especially if they qualify as researchers (EB1-B) or have extraordinary achievements (EB1-A).
Do I really need professional help for EB1?
While self-filing is possible for EB1-A, professional guidance significantly reduces errors and improves approval chances.
The EB1 category for green cards is one of the most powerful ways to secure U.S. permanent residency quickly—but only if you choose the right subcategory and present your case effectively. Whether you’re a scientist, entrepreneur, professor, or corporate leader, there’s an EB1 path designed for your extraordinary journey.
And remember, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Expert guidance can make the difference between approval and delay. Start your EB1 green card process with Beyond Border and move one step closer to your U.S. dream.
