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Is there a problem if in 2018 I tried EB-2 and now EB-1A?

There is no impediment to try EB-1A after EB-2, but each case is evaluated individually. Organized documentation and legal care are essential.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on February 22, 2026
2 min read
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When we start to understand the opportunities that immigrant visas in the United States offer, it is common to have doubts regarding different categories and previous attempts. The case you mention – having tried an EB-2 in 2018 and now considering the EB-1A option – deserves an explanation with some important details.

In general, there is no absolute impediment to try a new evaluation through the EB-1A, even if a previous attempt was made under the EB-2 criteria. Each classification has its own requirements and procedures. The EB-1A, known for covering individuals with extraordinary abilities in the fields of science, arts, education, business, or sports, has criteria that tend to be more demanding, but they can compensate with a differentiated analysis of your professional trajectory and achievements.

It is worth remembering that it is essential to keep all documentation and records of previous attempts, because if it is necessary to make references to them, having organized documentation can facilitate the understanding of your case. It is also fundamental to emphasize that each process is analyzed individually, meaning a previous attempt may not have a negative impact on the new evaluation if you meet the specific criteria of the EB-1A.

In this context, I reinforce the importance of strictly following United States immigration laws. It is recommended that you seek information from reliable sources and, if possible, consult specialists or well-established companies in the immigration field to avoid falling into scams or marketing approaches that promise sure results without the due analysis of your profile.

Remember that each process is unique and the final decision will depend on the evaluation of documents and compliance with the criteria established by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. In short, there is no automatic ‘stain effect’ for having tried a previous classification like EB-2, but it is essential to present strong evidence for the EB-1A and follow all legal procedures. Being well informed and proceeding cautiously is always the best way to approach immigration processes securely.

Learn more about EB-1 Visa

Category
EB-1 Green Card (1st priority)
Requirement
Extraordinary ability
Self-petition
Allowed (no sponsor needed)
Processing
6-18 months
All about EB-1 Visa
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.

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Is there a problem if in 2018 I tried EB-2 and now EB-1A?

There is no impediment to try EB-1A after EB-2, but each case is evaluated individually. Organized documentation and legal care are essential.

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