Visto n' Visa
Blog
Notícias e artigos
Destinations
Careers
Immigrants

Did I leave the position of professor and become a consultant. Is EB-1B still valid?

Changing from professor to consultant can affect eligibility in EB-1B, depending on the maintenance of ties with research and teaching at recognized institutions.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on January 12, 2026
2 min read
Share

The EB-1B visa was created to recognize individuals with exceptional achievements in the field of research or teaching, especially those who worked as professors or researchers at high-level institutions. This category requires, among other requirements, a permanent job offer from an accredited academic or research institution, as well as a solid track record proving significant impact in the field. When transitioning from a professor role to a consulting position, it is important to assess whether the new professional activity maintains the connection to teaching or research activities that characterize eligibility for the EB-1B. If the consulting involves applied research, innovative projects, and maintains ties with renowned institutions or academic collaborations, there is a possibility that the previous track record and results achieved will continue to be considered.

However, if the consultant role completely distances from the academic or research environment, the change may impact the classification under the EB-1B category, since the required criteria may not be met in the same way. It is essential to remember that the EB-1B analysis is based on consolidated documentary evidence and evaluation of the presented qualifications. Each case has particularities, and changes in the professional trajectory may require a careful reevaluation of the eligibility criteria.

Thus, it is worth reviewing your documentation, such as publications, awards, participation in relevant projects, and recommendation letters, to identify if the elements that strengthened your application as a professor continue to support you as an outstanding professional, even in the new role of consultant. Finally, I emphasize the importance of always abiding by United States immigration laws and consulting reliable sources, whether specialized companies or reputable legal advisors, so that the analysis is made based on all legal parameters and has the necessary seriousness. This way, you avoid falling into scams or marketing campaigns that promise immediate results without proper legal foundation.

Learn more about EB-1 Visa

Category
EB-1 Green Card (1st priority)
Requirement
Extraordinary ability
Self-petition
Allowed (no sponsor needed)
Processing
6-18 months
All about EB-1 Visa
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

Victoria's tips

Did I leave the position of professor and become a consultant. Is EB-1B still valid?

Changing from professor to consultant can affect eligibility in EB-1B, depending on the maintenance of ties with research and teaching at recognized institutions.

Recommended reading about EB-1

More content about EB-1