EB-1 is a first-preference employment-based visa. EB-1A is for extraordinary ability, EB-1B for outstanding professors/researchers, and EB-1C for multinational executives/managers. Each has distinct eligibility requirements and no labor certification is needed.

EB-1A is for individuals with national or international recognition in their field. Applicants must demonstrate extraordinary ability via a major award or meet at least three of ten regulatory criteria, such as publications, original contributions, or judging others' work.

Yes, EB-1A allows self-petitioning without an employer. EB-1B and EB-1C usually require employer sponsorship.

Evidence varies by subcategory. EB-1A: awards, publications, original contributions. EB-1B: scholarly recognition and permanent employment offer. EB-1C: managerial/executive experience and qualifying company relationship.

Processing generally takes 6–12 months. Premium processing guarantees a decision within 15 days for an extra fee.

Denials occur due to insufficient evidence, failure to meet criteria, or unclear documentation of accomplishments and recognition.

EB-2 is for individuals with an advanced degree or exceptional ability. Petitions may be employer-sponsored or self-petitioned via National Interest Waiver (NIW).

NIW allows self-petitioning without employer sponsorship or labor certification if the work benefits U.S. national interest and the applicant is well-positioned to advance it.

Individuals with an advanced degree or exceptional ability whose work benefits the U.S. national interest. Must show substantial merit, national importance, and ability to advance their proposed work.

Yes, through the NIW program, self-petitioning is allowed if the work is in the national interest.

Processing typically takes 8–14 months depending on USCIS workload, country of chargeability, and case complexity.

PERM is a process to show no qualified U.S. worker is available for a job. Employers must conduct recruitment and obtain Department of Labor certification before filing an employment-based green card petition.

Typically 6–12 months including recruitment and DOL processing. Audits or complex cases may take longer.

The employer covers all recruitment and filing costs. These cannot be passed on to the employee.

EB-3 covers skilled workers, professionals, and other workers. Jobs must meet DOL standards and require PERM certification.

EB-3 is generally more accessible for applicants without advanced degrees, but EB-2 allows higher-skilled workers or exceptional ability and may offer faster pathways via NIW.

H-1B allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring a U.S. bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Employers must file a Labor Condition Application and submit a petition to USCIS.

If petitions exceed the cap, USCIS runs a random lottery. Selected registrations can file full petitions; unselected are returned.

H-4 is for immediate family members of H-1B holders, allowing them to live and study in the U.S. Some spouses may qualify for work authorization.

Eligible spouses of H-1B holders can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) if certain criteria are met.

Yes, through employment-based categories such as EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3. Employer sponsorship or PERM may be required.

O-1 is for individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. Requires evidence of achievements and a U.S. petition.

P-1 is for internationally recognized athletes, entertainers, or groups coming temporarily to perform or compete in the U.S.

L-1 allows multinational companies to transfer managers, executives, or employees with specialized knowledge to a U.S. office. L-1A: managers/executives; L-1B: specialized knowledge.

TN is for Canadian and Mexican professionals under USMCA to work temporarily in approved occupations in the U.S.

E-3 is for Australian citizens to work in specialty occupations in the U.S., requiring a job offer and Labor Condition Application.

Many temporary work visas, including H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN, and E-3, can transition to green cards through employment-based categories like EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3.