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Does working in government laboratories also count for EB-1B?

For EB-1B, work at a government laboratory counts as long as you demonstrate international impact and recognition. Learn how to document your research and when this path makes sense for your profile.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 11, 2026
1 min read
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Yes. The EB-1B category, designed for outstanding professors and researchers, focuses not on the type of institution where you worked, but on the strength and international recognition of your contributions. Experience gained at government laboratories can therefore support a petition, provided it is well documented.

The category evaluates whether you are internationally recognized as outstanding in your field. Research conducted at a public laboratory carries the same weight in that analysis as research done at a university or private company, as long as you can show the reach and impact of your work.

  • What matters is the impact and recognition, not the label of a previous employer.
  • A sponsoring employer in the United States is required, with a formal offer for a research or teaching position.
  • Solid documentation (publications, citations, reference letters, participation on review panels) makes a significant difference.

Each case is evaluated individually by the relevant authority. It is worth checking the updated requirements with USCIS and assessing your profile with a specialist before filing.

Learn more about EB-1

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

About the author

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.

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Does working in government laboratories also count for EB-1B?

For EB-1B, work at a government laboratory counts as long as you demonstrate international impact and recognition. Learn how to document your research and when this path makes sense for your profile.

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