What is the difference between EB-1B and EB-2 with PERM for a university professor?

For a university professor, the central difference between EB-1B and EB-2 with PERM comes down to two things: the labor certification process (PERM) and the level of recognition required.

The EB-1B, designed for outstanding professors and researchers, bypasses PERM entirely. In return, it sets a high bar: you must demonstrate international recognition in your field and have an offer from a qualifying institution of higher education or research that attests to the significance of your work.

The EB-2 with PERM is the route for those with an advanced degree or exceptional ability. Here the process first goes through PERM, the Department of Labor certification that verifies no qualified and available U.S. worker exists for the position. This typically adds steps and complexity to the path.

• EB-1B: no PERM required, but demands proven international recognition.
• EB-2 with PERM: accessible to strong academic profiles that have not yet reached that level of recognition, at the cost of labor certification.

The best route depends on how your background fits each set of requirements. It is worth reviewing the current rules on the USCIS website and evaluating your profile with a specialist before deciding.

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.