What is the premium processing time for EB1 green card in 2025? A complete guide for Indians, H1B, and L1B holders on EB1 green card premium processing time, timeline breakdowns, and faster routes to approval.
If you’re looking for the fastest path to a U.S. green card, EB1 is often the top choice. It’s considered the “express lane” of employment-based green cards, especially for individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors, researchers, or multinational executives. But how long does it actually take in 2025? And how different is the EB1 green card processing time for Indians, H1B visa holders, or L1B transferees?
This guide explains what is the processing time for EB1 green card, breaks down timelines by visa type and nationality, and shows you how to speed up your approval.
The EB1 green card process generally has two main stages:
the timeline in 2025:
If you’re eligible for EB1A or EB1B and your priority date is current, you can often complete the process in 12–18 months. But for Indian nationals under EB1C, delays are common due to visa number availability and longer adjudication times.
Book an expert consultation with Beyond Border and get a personalized plan.
Premium processing is available for EB1A and EB1B petitions, and sometimes EB1C if the employer requests it. It guarantees a 15-day response for the I‑140 petition.
It only speeds up the petition stage—not the entire green card process.
So while it doesn’t cut your total EB1 green card processing time in half, it’s a smart move if you want clarity quickly. Need assistance in determining whether premium processing for EB1 is beneficial for your case? Talk to Beyond Border today for expert advice.
EB1C green card processing time for India is often slower than expected.
For example, an Indian L1A executive filing in March 2025 might get I‑140 approval in December 2025 but still wait until mid-to-late 2026 for final green card approval.
Always check the USCIS Visa Bulletin to track your priority date and plan ahead.
If you’re on an H1B visa, EB1 is much faster than EB2 or EB3.
Here’s the comparison:
For example, a researcher with international publications may qualify for EB1A, avoiding years of EB2 delays.
Want to know if you can convert your H1B to an EB1 green card? Get a free eligibility check with Beyond Border.
If you’re on an L1B visa, you may be considering EB1C—but it’s not always straightforward.
Key factors affecting L1B to EB1C timeline:
In many cases, an L1B employee transitions to L1A first before applying under EB1C. That switch itself can take 6+ months, adding to the overall timeline.
Need a strategic L1-to-EB1 plan? Beyond Border can map your best route.
Even within EB1, there are ways to move faster:
Most importantly, work with experts. A professionally prepared EB1 case avoids costly mistakes and delays.
If you qualify, EB1 is one of the fastest ways to get a U.S. green card, especially compared to EB2 and EB3 categories. However, your EB1 processing time will depend on your current visa (H1B or L1), nationality, and how strong your petition is.
Want a realistic timeline and personalized EB1 strategy?
Book your EB1 eligibility consultation with Beyond Border today and get clarity before you file.
Q: What is the EB1 green card processing time in 2025?
A: For EB1A/B, about 12–18 months. For EB1C, it can take 24–36 months or more for Indian applicants due to visa bulletin delays.
Q: Can I use premium processing for EB1C?
A: Yes, if your employer requests it. It speeds up the I‑140 decision but doesn’t shorten the entire green card timeline.
Q: Is EB1 faster than EB2/EB3 for H1B holders?
A: Absolutely. EB1 doesn’t need PERM and has much shorter wait times, especially for qualified Indian professionals.
Q: Do L1B visa holders qualify for EB1 green card directly?
A: Usually not. L1B holders often need to transition to L1A and show managerial/executive duties to be EB1C-eligible.
Q: Should I choose consular processing or adjustment of status?
A: It depends. Consular processing can be faster for those abroad, while AOS is better if you’re already in the U.S. with valid status.
The EB1 green card remains one of the fastest and most reliable ways to secure U.S. permanent residency, especially compared to EB2 or EB3. But processing times vary depending on your visa category, nationality, and the strength of your petition.
Ultimately, the right strategy and preparation can make the difference between a smooth 12‑month process and a drawn-out multi‑year wait.
Book your EB1 consultation with Beyond Border today and take the first step toward a faster, stress-free green card journey.
