I am an assistant professor, not tenure-track, but the institution says it can keep me indefinitely. EB-1B?

Let’s start by explaining a bit about the EB-1B category, which is aimed at outstanding professors and researchers. This United States visa option seeks to recognize professionals who stand out in their fields and demonstrate significant contributions at an international level.

For approval under EB-1B, strict criteria are required, which include, among others, a permanent job offer and concrete evidence of international recognition in the academic field. Regarding your specific situation – being an assistant professor and not in a tenure-track position, but with the institution’s assurance of long-term employment – it is important to note some points.

EB-1B requires a permanent job offer as a professor or researcher. Although the term “tenure-track” is often associated with academic stability, what really matters for EB-1B is that the position is offered on a permanent basis and that the institution demonstrates the need for and international recognition of the professional.

If the institution can put this guarantee in writing, indicating that you will have an indefinite position and demonstrate other qualities – such as relevant publications, awards, participation in international conferences, and peer recognitions – this can help meet one of the indispensable criteria for this category.

However, the success of an EB-1B petition does not depend only on the job offer, but also on how the other requirements are built, which involve demonstrating your relevance and recognition in your field of expertise. One of the challenges in processes of this nature is precisely gathering documentary evidence that highlights the importance of your academic contributions.

Each case is analyzed individually, and documents proving the impact of the work and international recognition through citations in publications, awards, invitations to participate in committees, and other indicators can be decisive.

It is very important to emphasize that the immigration process in the United States strictly follows established laws and guidelines, and meeting all requirements is essential to avoid unforeseen events or the possibility of an unfavorable evaluation.

Thus, it is recommended to seek detailed information and follow-up with reliable specialists in the immigration field to ensure that all criteria are properly analyzed and presented. In addition, care should be taken not to fall for miracle promises or marketing campaigns that guarantee results without real grounding in the legal requirements.

I hope to have clarified some important points about the possibility of qualifying for EB-1B in your case. Remember that a comprehensive evaluation of the merits of your academic and professional profile is essential to determine whether this category is appropriate, always respecting US immigration laws and seeking guidance from specialized professionals in the field.

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.