EB-1 (A)
The EB-1(A) visa, also known as the Extraordinary Ability visa, is intended for individuals who have shown exceptional talent and earned national or international acclaim in their field. To qualify, applicants must meet at least three out of ten established criteria, which may include receiving lesser-known but nationally or internationally recognized awards, holding membership in prestigious associations that require outstanding achievements, or publishing scholarly articles. Alternatively, a single major, internationally recognized award—such as a Nobel Prize—can also serve as sufficient evidence of extraordinary ability. This visa is ideal for professionals in areas such as science, the arts, education, business, or athletics.
To apply for the EB-1(A) visa, individuals must submit Form I-140 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), along with the necessary supporting documentation. Unlike other employment-based visas, the EB-1(A) does not require a job offer or labor certification. Once the petition is approved, applicants can either adjust their status if they are already in the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa or undergo consular processing to obtain an immigrant visa. This visa provides a faster route to permanent residency for both the applicant and their immediate family, making it an appealing option for highly accomplished professionals.
