In the EB-1B, if the institution does not have 3 full-time researchers but is large in teaching, does it qualify?

The EB-1B visa is intended for professors and researchers who demonstrate international recognition in their field. Generally, the criteria required by the EB-1B involve presenting a permanent job offer – even if with semi-permanent status – from a renowned teaching or research institution. One of the points analyzed is the institution’s history and capacity to support research activities.

In the case of an institution that is large in teaching but does not have three full-time dedicated researchers, this does not necessarily mean it falls outside the EB-1B requirements. What matters is that the institution, whether of teaching or research, can demonstrate that it has a robust history of research activities and relevant contributions to the academic or scientific area.

If the entity has a teaching department that also conducts research projects, important publications, research funding, or partnerships with other institutions, these elements can strengthen the narrative that it has the necessary structure and commitment to support an EB-1B candidate.

It is essential to gather robust evidence proving the institution’s ability to contribute to research advancement, even if the main focus is teaching. Documents showing research results, recognition in the academic community, awards, funding, and other performance indicators in the research area can be decisive to balance the absence of a specific number of full-time researchers.

It is worth remembering that each case has its particularities and that the United States immigration authorities analyze the entire set of evidence presented, not focusing on a single isolated criterion. Thus, the strategy should be to clearly and documentedly demonstrate how the institution supports and promotes relevant research activities, as well as the importance of the offered position in the development of innovative projects and intellectual capital formation.

Finally, it is important to strictly follow U.S. immigration rules and be cautious with information from unofficial sources. Always seek guidance from professionals specialized in immigration to avoid risks, scams, or unfounded promises guaranteeing results. Each situation has its particularities and a detailed analysis of documents and institutional history is essential to support the visa application according to current legal requirements.

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.