Is self-petitioning possible for EB-1B or EB-1C?

The EB-1 categories are valuable tools for professionals wishing to immigrate to the United States due to exceptional abilities or prominent positions in their fields. Each subcategory — EB-1A, EB-1B, and EB-1C — has specific criteria and different petition methods.

In the case of EB-1B (for outstanding professors and researchers) and EB-1C (for multinational executives and managers), U.S. law requires that a U.S. employer be responsible for the petition. This means that, unlike EB-1A — which allows self-petitioning — the EB-1B and EB-1C categories cannot be self-petitioned.

The applicant cannot directly apply for these visas without sponsorship from a U.S. company or institution. It is essential to understand that employment relationship is one of the indispensable requirements for these categories. For EB-1B, for example, the candidate must be affiliated with a recognized university or research institution, while EB-1C requires that the candidate has held managerial or executive positions at an international level before assuming a similar position in the United States.

We emphasize the importance of strictly following U.S. immigration laws and seeking support from consultancies or companies specialized in the subject. This way, you will avoid mistakes and protect yourself against possible frauds or unfounded promises circulating in marketing networks. Each case is unique, and many factors can influence the petition, so it is essential to obtain updated and reliable information.

In summary, if the intention is to apply for a visa in the EB-1B or EB-1C category, it is imperative to have the support of an employer in the United States, since self-petitioning is not allowed in these subcategories.

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.