Can I downgrade from EB-1 to EB-4?

Not in the way the term ‘downgrade’ implies. There is no formal mechanism that automatically converts an EB-1 petition into an EB-4 petition. These are categories with different purposes, and eligibility for one does not transfer to the other.

The difference in purpose explains why. The EB-1 is designed for individuals with exceptional professional standing, such as those with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, or multinational executives and managers. The EB-4, on the other hand, is the path for so-called special immigrants, a defined set of specific groups that includes certain religious workers and other categories established by law.

In other words, moving to the EB-4 is not a step down from an EB-1 petition: it means starting a new process under the EB-4’s own criteria, demonstrating that you qualify for one of those special immigrant groups. Having an approved or pending EB-1 does not, on its own, open the door to the EB-4.

Since each category has its own specific requirements, it is worth checking the updated requirements at the official source and consulting a specialist to assess whether your profile qualifies for the EB-4.

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.