The eb1a green card is a permanent work visa for people who have “extraordinary ability” in science, arts, education, business, or athletics. Unlike the temporary O-1 visa, EB1A green cards allow applicants to bring their families to live with them in the United States. Additionally, EB1A applicants can enjoy other freedoms, including being able to work in their field of expertise without restriction and pursue citizenship.
EB1A Green Card: What Qualifies as Extraordinary Ability
To meet the criteria for EB1A, an applicant must show that they have sustained national or international acclaim in their field of endeavor and that their achievements have been recognized in the country of origin. There are multiple ways to prove this, such as major awards from within your industry, earning a high salary compared to others in your field, commercial success in the performing arts (shown by box office receipts), or showing that you were published in major trade publications.
Ultimately, you must gather recommendation letters from experts in your field to help support your case. Ideally, you should have at least 5-10 expert letters to submit with your application.
Another benefit of EB1A is that it does not require a labor certification, which can save a significant amount of time. In addition, EB1A cases are eligible for premium processing, which can expedite the process. This makes it a great option for people who want to get into the United States quickly. However, keep in mind that EB1A is not an automatic pathway to citizenship and there is no guarantee that USCIS will approve your petition.