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In the EB-1C, does it replace PERM?

Yes, the EB-1C waives PERM, which streamlines the path for multinational executives. In return, it carries its own company and managerial experience requirements. Learn what changes and confirm with USCIS.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 11, 2026
1 min read
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Yes. One of the hallmarks of the EB-1C, the category for multinational executives and managers, is that it waives PERM, the labor certification required under other employment-based green card pathways. This typically makes the route more straightforward for companies transferring leadership to the United States.

Waiving PERM, however, does not mean a simple process. The EB-1C substitutes that step with its own demanding requirements tied to both the company and the candidate’s profile:

  • The organization must have international operations and maintain a qualifying entity in the U.S., such as a branch, subsidiary, or affiliate.
  • The candidate must have performed executive or managerial duties abroad for a qualifying period.
  • The relationship between the foreign company and the U.S. entity must be thoroughly documented.

Each element is carefully assessed by immigration authorities, so even without PERM, the EB-1C demands solid preparation and documentation. It is worth verifying the current requirements with USCIS or a qualified 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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In the EB-1C, does it replace PERM?

Yes, the EB-1C waives PERM, which streamlines the path for multinational executives. In return, it carries its own company and managerial experience requirements. Learn what changes and confirm with USCIS.

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