Visto n' Visa

What are the criteria for EB-1B?

EB-1B is the green card pathway for outstanding professors and researchers: it requires a permanent offer from a U.S. institution and demonstrated international recognition. Learn how to build a strong case.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 11, 2026
1 min read
Share

The EB-1B is the green card category designed for outstanding professors and researchers with international recognition in their field. Unlike pathways that rely on labor certification, this category focuses on academic and scientific achievement combined with a stable position at a U.S. institution.

In general terms, eligibility rests on two pillars:

  • A permanent or long-term job offer from a U.S. university or research institution.
  • Evidence of international recognition as an outstanding figure in the relevant field.

That recognition is demonstrated through a body of qualitative evidence, such as relevant awards and distinctions, membership in selective associations, published material about the candidate’s work, participation in evaluating the work of others, original contributions of significant impact, and authorship of articles in recognized publications. The minimum number of categories required and the evaluation criteria are defined by USCIS and assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Because every profile is unique, it is worth assembling solid documentation and reviewing the current requirements directly with USCIS or with an immigration 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.

Victoria's tips

What are the criteria for EB-1B?

EB-1B is the green card pathway for outstanding professors and researchers: it requires a permanent offer from a U.S. institution and demonstrated international recognition. Learn how to build a strong case.

Recommended reading about EB-1

More content about EB-1