The EB-1 visa – Immigrant Visa – Green Card is a U.S. employment-based immigrant visa for individuals with exceptional skills, talent, or accomplishments in their professional fields. This visa is part of the first preference employment-based immigration category, allowing certain highly skilled individuals to obtain a U.S. green card (permanent residency) without needing employer sponsorship in some cases. The EB-1 visa is highly desirable because it often has shorter processing times and no need for a labour certification, which is required for other employment-based visas.
The EB-1 visa has three main subcategories:
- EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability): For individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields such as science, art, education, business, or athletics. Applicants must show evidence of sustained national or international acclaim and recognition. EB-1 allows for self-petition, meaning applicants can apply without a job offer or employer sponsorship.
- EB-1B (Outstanding Professors and Researchers): For outstanding professors and researchers who have at least three years of experience in teaching or research. They must be recognized internationally in their academic field and have a permanent job offer in the U.S. from a university or research institution.
- EB-1C (Multinational Managers and Executives): For managers or executives who have worked for a qualifying international company outside the U.S. for at least one year in the three years before applying. This is often used by multinational companies to transfer top-level employees to the U.S.
The EB-1 visa is a pathway to permanent residency, making it popular among high-achieving individuals seeking to live and work in the United States.
For expert assistance with your U.S. immigration needs, contact our experienced team at YA Law Corporation. Located in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia, we’re here to help guide you through every step of the process.