Priority Workers (EB 1) Visa

The Immigration and Nationality Act allows for five different methods to legally immigrate to the U.S. Obtaining a "green card" for permanent residency is one of the five methods. Immigrant visas are capped annually at approximately 480,000, with new visas becoming available in October of each year.

Each month, a visa bulletin is published by the State Department, listing visas granted in the prior month and visas yet to be granted for that year. Employer-sponsored visas are broken down into: EB 1 Priority Workers; EB 2 workers highly talented or those having advanced degrees; EB 3 skilled or professionals or other workers; EB 4 Special status immigrants; and EB5 Investors.

What are Priority Workers (EB 1)?

There are three different types of priority workers: extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, multinational executives or managers.

Who is a foreign national of extraordinary ability (EB 1)?

A foreign national of extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics requires substantial documentation national or international acclaim, evidence that the foreign national is entering the U.S. to work in their area of extraordinary ability, and that entry will substantially benefit the U.S.

Who is an outstanding professor or researcher (EB 1)?

An outstanding professor or researcher, has three years or more experience in teaching or academic research, and who is recognized internationally as outstanding who is coming to the U.S. to work in a tenured or tenure-track position, or a comparable position at an institution of higher education to teach or or conduct research in their chosen field; or in a comparable position in the private sector to conduct research; given that the employer has a documented record of achievement in the field of study and in which three or more persons are employed doing full-time research.

What is a multinational executive or manager (EB 1)?

A foreign national who has worked for at least one year in the three preceding years for a firm, or corporation , and is entering the United States to continue to work for the same employer, or for a subsidiary or affiliate, as a manager or executive.

How can we help you?

We will assist you in ensuring that you are applying for a green card under the correct preference. If you are eligible for a green card through Employment immigration, we will also provide guidance to help you obtain the supporting documentation you will need to prove that you qualify. We will prepare and file all immigration or consular documentation necessary to properly submit your case.

To learn if an EB 1 green card is right for you, please contact Immigration Attorney Maria M. Cordon to schedule an immigration consultation.