Visiting scholar at two universities. Does that lack the stability required for EB-1B?

The EB-1B (outstanding professors and researchers) rests on two pillars: international recognition in the academic field and a permanent or indefinite job offer from an institution, university, or employer in the United States. The concern your question raises goes directly to that second pillar.

Visiting scholar positions typically have a temporary nature, with a defined end date, and for that reason, on their own, they tend not to demonstrate the stable employment relationship that EB-1B requires. Having served at two universities may reinforce your recognition and the quality of your work, but does not, by itself, convert those temporary stints into a permanent offer.

What typically resolves this issue is presenting an offer with genuine continuity, for example:

• A permanent or tenure-track position with long-term continuity.
• An indefinite-term contract, rather than a short-duration appointment.

Your visiting scholar experience remains valuable for demonstrating recognition (publications, awards, expert reference letters, participation in academic committees). Since each case is evaluated individually by the USCIS, it is worth confirming the current requirements with USCIS and reviewing your offer with an immigration 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.