Missed The H-1B Visa? The EB-1 Could Be The Right Choice For You. Here's Who Can Apply

Last Updated:June 25, 2025, 17:32 IST

The EB-1 visa is a US green card for individuals with extraordinary ability who have made a significant impact or achieved distinction in their professional fields

The EB-1 is a US immigrant visa, essentially a pathway to a green card. (Representative/Shutterstock)

With the Donald Trump administration imposing tighter restrictions on the H-1B visa, many Indian professionals saw their hopes of living and working in the US dwindle. In this climate, the EB-1 visa has gained attention as a viable alternative—offering a pathway to permanent residency for individuals with exceptional achievements in their fields.

The EB-1 visa is a type of green card granted to individuals. It is granted to individuals with exceptional ability—those who have made a distinct mark in their professions. This includes top-tier researchers, professors, and multinational executives. For instance, an Indian scientist recognized internationally for a groundbreaking invention, or a musician who has won a Grammy Award, would be eligible to apply under the EB-1A category.

What Is EB-1 Visa?

The EB-1 is a US immigrant visa, essentially a pathway to a green card. It allows recipients to live and work in the United States permanently. However, the eligibility criteria are highly stringent, making it accessible only to a select group of individuals who meet its exceptional standards.

Who Gets EB-1 Visa?

The visa is divided into three categories: EB-1A, EB-1B, and EB-1C.

EB-1A: This category is for individuals with extraordinary abilities in areas such as science, arts, sports, education, and business. Notable examples include Nobel Prize winners, Olympic athletes, and Grammy Award recipients. Applicants for EB-1A do not require a job offer from a US employer.

EB-1B: This category is aimed at professors and researchers who have achieved international recognition in their fields. To qualify, they must have a permanent job offer from a US institution or company.

EB-1C: This category is designed for multinational managers or executives who have worked for at least one year with their overseas company and now seek to continue their role in the US branch of the same company. This category has a relatively quick processing time.

How Many EB-1A Visas Does The US Grant?

The total number of EB-1 visas issued annually is part of the overall employment-based green card quota, which is set at 140,000 for 2025. Out of this, 28.6%, or approximately 40,000 visas, are allocated to the EB-1 category, divided among EB-1A, EB-1B, and EB-1C.

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