The EB-1 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa for individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, and multinational executives or managers. It is one of the fastest ways to get a green card. EB-1 Visa Processing Time  

EB-1 Visa Processing Time

EB-1 Visa Processing Time

The processing time for an EB-1 visa depends on multiple factors:

  1. Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) EB-1 Visa Processing Time

    • Premium Processing: 15 calendar days (if eligible, for an additional $2,805 fee).
    • Regular Processing: 6 to 12 months (varies by USCIS Service Center).
  2. Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) or Consular EB-1 Visa Processing Time

    • Adjustment of Status (within the U.S.): 8 to 14 months.
    • Consular Processing (outside the U.S.): 4 to 6 months.

What Are the Current Wait EB-1 Visa Processing Time ?

  • The processing time for an EB-1 visa depends on your category and country of origin.
  • On average, it takes 6 months to 2 years.
  • Some applicants can use premium EB-1 Visa Processing Time up the petition approval to 15 calendar days (Form I-140 only).

How Hard Is It to Get an EB-1 Visa?

EB-1 Visa Processing Time
  • The EB-1 visa is very difficult to get because it requires strong proof of achievements.
  • Only people with exceptional qualifications and a proven track record in their field qualify.
  • Applicants must meet strict requirements set by USCIS.

Who Is Eligible for an EB-1 Visa?

  • EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability): People with exceptional skills in science, arts, education, business, or athletics.
  • EB-1B (Outstanding Professors & Researchers): Academics with international recognition and at least three years of experience.
  • EB-1C (Multinational Executives & Managers): High-level executives transferred to a U.S. office from a multinational company.

Is EB-2 NIW Faster Than EB-1?

  • The EB-1 visa is usually faster because it does not require Labor Certification (PERM).
  • The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) can take 2 to 5 years, while EB-1 applicants can get a green card within 1-2 years if priority dates are current.

EB-1 Visa Requirements

  • Must meet at least 3 out of 10 criteria for extraordinary ability (e.g., awards, publications, high salary, media recognition).
  • Professors must show international recognition and a permanent job offer.
  • Executives must have worked at least 1 year in a qualifying company before transfer.

What Is the Success Rate of EB-1?

  • The approval rate for EB-1 varies but is around 80-90% for well-prepared cases.
  • EB-1A has the lowest approval rate because it requires high achievements.
  • EB-1B and EB-1C have higher approval rates if the employer meets the requirements.
EB-1 Visa Processing Time

Can Family Members Come with an EB-1 Visa Holder?

  • Yes, spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply for EB-1 dependent visas (E- 14 or E-15).
  • Spouses can apply for work authorization (EAD) to work in the U.S.

Does EB-1 Require a Job Offer?

  • EB-1A applicants do not need a job offer and can self-petition.
  • EB-1B and EB-1C require a U.S. employer to sponsor the petition.

What Happens If My EB-1 Visa Is Denied?

  • You can file a motion to reconsider if there was a mistake in the decision.
  • You can reapply with stronger evidence or try a different visa category.

What Are the Benefits of an EB-1 Visa?

  • No labor certification required, making it faster than EB-2 and EB-3.
  • Pathway to U.S. citizenship after holding a green card for 5 years.
  • Premium processing available for faster petition approval.

Conclusion

The EB-1 visa is a great option for highly skilled individuals looking for a faster green card process. However, it requires strong evidence of achievements. Understanding the categories, eligibility, and EB-1 Visa Processing Time can help applicants prepare for a successful application.

EB-1 Visa Processing Time