In EB-1B, is there a distinction between a university professor and a researcher?

In practice, the EB-1B does not draw a rigid line between a university professor and a researcher. The category is designed for academics with international recognition, and the assessment focuses more on the candidate’s profile and achievements than on the exact job title.

What the category seeks to demonstrate is a well-established academic track record. In this regard, both professors and researchers are evaluated against the same types of evidence, such as:

• International recognition in the field of expertise.
• Publications, citations, and relevant contributions.
• Awards and other forms of professional distinction.
• Generally, a job offer for a position at a research institution or university in the United States.

Therefore, candidates do not need to fit rigidly into one label. Whether the focus is more on teaching or research, what matters is demonstrating considerable impact and recognition, assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Since the documentation requirements are high, it is worth checking the updated requirements on the official USCIS website and building your evidence package with the support of a specialist.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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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.