EB-1 Visa Explained: The ‘Einstein Visa’ Eligibility and Categories

Key Takeaways

• EB-1 visa is for extraordinary ability, outstanding professors, and multinational executives without labor certification.
• As of June 2025, EB-1 category is current for all countries, enabling immediate green card application.
• EB-1A allows self-petition; EB-1B and EB-1C require U.S. employer sponsorship and job offers.

The EB-1 Visa: A Complete Guide to the “Einstein Visa” for Extraordinary Talent

The EB-1 visa, often called the “Einstein visa,” is one of the fastest and most sought–after ways for highly skilled people to get a green card in the United States 🇺🇸. This visa is designed for those who have shown outstanding ability in their field, whether in science, arts, education, business, or athletics. It also covers top professors, researchers, and multinational executives or managers. Because of its high standards and the chance to skip some of the usual steps, the EB-1 visa is both respected and competitive.

Below, you’ll find a clear explanation of what the EB-1 visa is, who can apply, what the process looks like, and why it matters for both individuals and employers. This guide also answers common questions and gives real-world examples to help you understand how the “Einstein visa” works in practice.

What Is the EB-1 Visa (Einstein Visa)?

The EB-1 visa is the first preference employment-based green card category in the United States 🇺🇸. It is called the “Einstein visa” because it is meant for people who are at the very top of their field—much like Albert Einstein was in physics. The EB-1 visa is divided into three main groups:

• EB-1A: People with extraordinary ability in their field
• EB-1B: Outstanding professors or researchers
• EB-1C: Certain multinational executives or managers

The EB-1 visa is popular because it does not require a labor certification, which is a step that can slow down other employment-based green card applications. As of June 2025, the EB-1 category is “current” for all countries, meaning visas are available right away after approval of the main petition (Form I-140).

Categories and Eligibility Requirements

EB-1A: Extraordinary Ability

This category is for people who have shown they are among the best in their field. You do not need a job offer or employer sponsor for EB-1A, which means you can apply on your own (self-petition).

To qualify, you must:
– Show sustained national or international recognition for your work.
– Plan to keep working in your field in the United States 🇺🇸.

You can qualify in two ways:
1. One-Time Major Award: If you have won a major, internationally recognized award (like a Nobel Prize, Oscar, or Olympic medal), you qualify automatically.
2. Meet at Least Three of Ten Criteria: If you do not have a major award, you must meet at least three of these ten criteria:
– Won smaller national or international prizes for excellence.
– Member of associations that require outstanding achievements.
– Featured in professional or major media publications.
– Judged the work of others in your field.
– Made original contributions of major importance.
– Written scholarly articles in professional journals or major media.
– Had your work displayed at exhibitions or showcases.
– Played a leading or critical role in distinguished organizations.
– Earned a high salary compared to others in your field.
– Achieved commercial success in the performing arts.

Comparable Evidence: If you cannot meet three of these criteria, you may submit other types of proof, but you must explain why your evidence is just as strong.

EB-1B: Outstanding Professors or Researchers

This category is for professors or researchers who are recognized internationally for their work. Unlike EB-1A, you must have a job offer from a U.S. employer, and you cannot self-petition.

To qualify, you must:
– Have at least three years of experience in teaching or research.
– Be internationally recognized in your academic field.
– Have a job offer for a permanent research position or a tenured/tenure-track teaching job.

Evidence may include:
– Publications in top journals.
– Awards or honors for your work.
– Membership in associations that require outstanding achievements.

EB-1C: Multinational Executives or Managers

This category is for executives or managers who have worked for a company outside the United States 🇺🇸 and are being transferred to a related company in the U.S.

To qualify, you must:
– Have worked for the company outside the U.S. for at least one year in the last three years.
– Be coming to the U.S. to work as an executive or manager for the same company or a related company.
– Show that the U.S. and foreign companies have a qualifying relationship (such as parent, branch, or affiliate).

Step-by-Step EB-1 Visa Process

1. Check Your Eligibility
   • Review the requirements for EB-1A, EB-1B, or EB-1C to see which category fits your background.
2. Gather Evidence
   • Collect documents that prove your achievements, such as awards, publications, letters of recommendation, or proof of your role in a company.
3. File Form I-140
   • Submit Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). EB-1A applicants can file on their own; EB-1B and EB-1C applicants need a U.S. employer to file for them.
   • You can find the official Form I-140 and instructions here.
4. Consider Premium Processing
   • For an extra fee, you can request premium processing, which gives you a decision on your I-140 petition within 15 calendar days. As of June 2025, the premium processing fee is $2,805.
5. Check the Visa Bulletin
   • The U.S. Department of State publishes a monthly Visa Bulletin that shows which green card categories are “current.” As of June 2025, the EB-1 category is current for all countries, so you can move forward right away after I-140 approval.
6. Apply for a Green Card
   • If you are already in the United States 🇺🇸, file Form I-485 to adjust your status to permanent resident.
   • If you are outside the U.S., you will go through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
7. Attend an Interview (if required)
   • Some applicants may be called for an interview before final approval.
8. Receive Your Green Card
   • Once approved, you become a lawful permanent resident of the United States 🇺🇸.

Fees and Processing Times

• Form I-140 Filing Fee: $700 (as of June 2025)
• Premium Processing Fee: $2,805 (optional)
• Standard Processing Time: Several months, depending on the case and service center
• Premium Processing Time: 15 calendar days

Why the EB-1 Visa Is So Popular

• No Labor Certification: Most employment-based green cards require a labor certification, which means the employer must prove there are no qualified U.S. workers for the job. The EB-1 visa skips this step, saving time and effort.
• Fast Processing: Because the EB-1 category is often current in the Visa Bulletin, there is little to no waiting for a green card number.
• Self-Petitioning: EB-1A applicants do not need a job offer or employer sponsor, giving them more control over their application.
• High Standards: The EB-1 visa is only for those who can show they are truly at the top of their field. This keeps the category exclusive and respected.

Real-World Examples

• Scientist: A cancer researcher with several patents, many published articles, and awards from international organizations applies under EB-1A. She submits proof of her original contributions, media coverage, and high salary.
• Professor: A university professor with over ten years of experience, many publications, and invitations to speak at major conferences is offered a tenured position at a U.S. university. The university sponsors him under EB-1B.
• Executive: A manager at a global tech company has led teams in Europe and is now being transferred to the U.S. headquarters. The company files an EB-1C petition for him.

Common Questions About the EB-1 Visa

Can I apply for the EB-1 visa by myself?
– Yes, if you are applying under EB-1A (extraordinary ability). For EB-1B and EB-1C, you need a U.S. employer to sponsor you.

Do I need a job offer for the EB-1 visa?
– Only for EB-1B and EB-1C. EB-1A does not require a job offer.

What if I do not meet three of the ten EB-1A criteria?
– You can submit other types of strong evidence, but you must explain why your proof is just as good as the listed criteria.

How long does the EB-1 process take?
– With premium processing, you can get a decision on your I-140 petition in 15 days. The rest of the process depends on your situation, but it is usually faster than other green card categories.

Is the EB-1 visa always current?
– As of June 2025, yes, but this can change. Always check the Visa Bulletin for the latest updates.

Comparing EB-1 to Other Green Card Categories

• EB-2 and EB-3: These categories are for professionals with advanced degrees or skilled workers. They require labor certification and often have longer wait times.
• EB-1: No labor certification, faster processing, and higher standards for eligibility.

Rights and Pathways After Approval

Once you receive your green card through the EB-1 visa, you have the same rights as other lawful permanent residents. You can:
– Live and work anywhere in the United States 🇺🇸
– Travel in and out of the country (with some restrictions)
– Apply for U.S. citizenship after five years, if you meet all requirements

Policy Updates and Future Outlook

• No Major Changes: The most recent update to EB-1A evidence requirements took effect on October 2, 2024. There have been no major changes since then.
• Continued Demand: The EB-1 visa is expected to stay popular because of its speed and flexibility.
• Monitoring Needed: Applicants should keep an eye on the Visa Bulletin and USCIS updates for any changes in visa availability or requirements.

Practical Tips for Applicants

• Prepare Strong Evidence: The EB-1 visa has high standards. Collect as much proof as possible to show your achievements.
• Get Expert Help: Many applicants work with immigration attorneys to make sure their application is complete and well-organized.
• Use Premium Processing: If you want a quick decision, consider paying for premium processing.

Official Resources and Where to Get Help

• USCIS EB-1 Visa Information: USCIS EB-1 Page
• Form I-140: USCIS I-140 Form
• Visa Bulletin: U.S. Department of State Visa Bulletin
• USCIS Contact Center: 1-800-375-5283

Summary Table: EB-1 Visa Categories

Final Thoughts

The EB-1 visa, or “Einstein visa,” is a powerful way for top talent to live and work in the United States 🇺🇸. Its fast processing, lack of labor certification, and self-petition option for EB-1A make it attractive for many. However, the standards are high, and careful preparation is key. As reported by VisaVerge.com, the EB-1 visa remains a top choice for those who can prove they are leaders in their field.

If you believe you qualify, start by reviewing the official requirements and gathering strong evidence. For more details, visit the USCIS EB-1 information page. This will help you understand the process and take the next steps toward your American dream.

Learn Today

EB-1 visa → A U.S. employment-based green card for extraordinary ability, outstanding professors, or multinational executives.
Self-petition → Applying for a visa without requiring an employer sponsorship, possible under EB-1A category.
Labor certification → A process requiring employers to prove no qualified U.S. workers are available for the job.
Form I-140 → Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker filed to USCIS to start the green card process.
Premium processing → An expedited USCIS service guaranteeing decision on certain petitions within 15 calendar days.

This Article in a Nutshell

The EB-1 “Einstein visa” offers a fast green card for top talent in science, arts, or business, skipping labor certification. Three categories cover extraordinary ability, professors, and executives. Its high standards provide prestige and flexibility, making it ideal for those leading their fields and seeking U.S. permanent residency quickly.
— By VisaVerge.com