EB-1A

This immigrant visa category is for individuals who have risen to the very top of their field — and can prove it.

The EB‑1A is a U.S. green card for individuals with extraordinary ability in their field. Unlike most green card categories, you don’t need a job offer, employer, or labor certification.

Instead, you qualify by showing a strong record of nationally or internationally recognized success — and that you will continue working in your field in the U.S.
If approved, you and your immediate family (spouse and children under 21) receive U.S. permanent residence.

The EB-1A (often referred to colloquially as the “Einstein” or “genius” visa) is a first-preference immigrant visa

Top Benefits of the EB‑1A

No employer or job offer required

Eligible for premium processing (15 days)

Skip labor certification
Available across all fields of expertise
Spouse and children receive green cards too

Things to Keep in Mind

Must prove sustained acclaim with strong documentation
Only for individuals at the top of their field
USCIS officers assess overall impact, not just checkboxes
Filing without a strong case can be a financial risk

Eligibility

Discover if you qualify for the EB-1A. Explore the evidentiary criteria below.

To qualify, you must provide clear evidence of a one-time achievement (for example, a major internationally recognized award, such as the Nobel Prize) or at least three of the types of evidence listed in the regulations.

Core Requirements for EB-1A

Discover if you qualify for the EB-1A. Explore the evidentiary criteria below.

01

You can demonstrate “extraordinary ability” in your field

02

You will continue working in that field in the United States

03

Your work will substantially benefit the United States in the future

10 Criteria for Extraordinary Ability

Discover if you qualify for the EB-1A. Explore the evidentiary criteria below.

01

Awards

Lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in the field of endeavor

02

Memberships

Membership in associations that demand outstanding achievement as judged by (inter)national experts

03

Published Materials

Published material about you and your work in professional or major trade publications or other major media

04

Judge or Panelist

Participation, either individually or on a panel, as a judge of the work of others in the same or an allied field of specification

05

Major Significance of Originality

Original scientific, scholarly, artistic, athletic, or business-related contributions of major significance in the field

06

Presence in Major Media

Authorship of scholarly articles in the field, in professional or major trade publications or other major media

07

Display in exhibitions

Display of your work in the field at artistic exhibitions or showcases. This applies to visual artists.

08

Distinguished reputation

You’ve performed in a leading or critical role for organizations that have a distinguished reputation

09

High Salary

You have commanded a high salary, or other significantly high remuneration for services, in relation to others in the field

10

Commercial Success

Commercial successes in the performing arts, as shown by box office receipts or record, cassette, compact disk, or video sales

Next Steps

If you have questions regarding whether you could be considered a person of “extraordinary ability,” you can schedule a call with us to get a proper assessment of your profile, have your specific questions answered and have a clear knowledge on what it takes to win.

FAQs

Can I apply without an employer?

Our services go beyond paperwork. We uncover the story behind your accomplishments, build compelling petitions that stand out, and provide guidance at every step of the process. With a tailored, strategic approach, we accelerate your journey to permanent residency so you can focus on what matters most—sharing your talents, advancing your career, and building your future in the U.S.

I-140: ~6–12+ months with regular processing; ~15 business days with premium processing. Full green card process (I-140 + AOS or consular + visa queue): roughly 1–3+ years for most, faster when priority dates are current, and documents are ready.
EB-1A is highly selective. It is reserved for a small percentage of people at the very top of their field with sustained national or international acclaim. Strong evidence and a coherent strategy are critical; no one can promise an approval.
Yes, being a business owner does not disqualify you. If you qualify under EB-1A’s extraordinary-ability standards, you can self-petition, regardless of whether you operate a business.