I am a researcher in industry. Does EB-1B require teaching experience?

A common question from those working in the private sector is whether EB-1B only accepts classroom teaching time. The short answer is no: the category recognizes qualified experience in research or teaching, and research does not need to have been conducted at a university.

In other words, research performed within a company can count, provided you can demonstrate that you carried out work of a scientific or academic nature, with results and responsibilities consistent with those of an outstanding researcher.

To support this, it typically helps to gather:

• Publications, patents, or technical reports tied to your work.
• Recommendation letters that describe the research character of your role.
• Records showing the continuity and relevance of your experience.

There is a minimum period of experience required, but how it is counted is interpreted on a case-by-case basis. That is why documenting the nature and duration of your work thoroughly matters more than focusing on a specific number of years.

Before filing, confirm the current requirements at the official source (USCIS) and, if you have questions about your background, have your case reviewed by a specialist.

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.