Can EB-1A and EB-1B petitions request Premium Processing?

Yes. Both categories, EB-1A (extraordinary ability) and EB-1B (outstanding professors and researchers), are eligible for Premium Processing, the optional, fee-based service under which USCIS commits to reviewing the petition within a shorter timeframe than the standard one.

In practice, it is an option for those who need a faster decision, whether for career planning, deadlines, or predictability. It speeds up the agency’s response, but does not change the merit criteria: the petition is still evaluated against the same requirements of the category.

It is worth keeping in mind that the service is subject to availability, and that both the fee and the timeframe and rules may be adjusted by USCIS over time. For that reason, relying on figures from memory is not advisable.

Before deciding, verify the current conditions of Premium Processing, such as eligibility, cost, and processing time, directly from the official USCIS source or with a qualified specialist, as these details change periodically.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.