EB-1A Visa — Extraordinary Ability U.S. Green Card

Apply for the U.S. EB-1A Green Card — the extraordinary ability visa for top achievers in science, business, arts, education, or athletics.

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Typical timeline

12 months

Indicative end-to-end processing; varies by case.

Job offer

Independent

Not required

No employer sponsorship is needed.

Occupation lists

Eligible occupations(5/5)

1Typical Eligible Fields(5)
Scientists and researchers with internationally recognized achievementsEntrepreneurs and business executives with proven industry impactArtists, designers, and performers with global recognitionProfessional athletes competing at international levelsAcademics, educators, and inventors with exceptional contributions

Program overview

Overview

The EB-1A visa is a U.S. employment-based immigration pathway for individuals with extraordinary ability in science, arts, education, business, or athletics. It offers a direct route to permanent residency through self-petition, without the need for employer sponsorship or labor certification.

Official

Government fees

Total (USD): $2,155

USCIS — Form I-140 (EB-1A Petition)
—
$715
Adjustment of Status or Consular Stage (Form I-485 / DS-260)
—
$1,440

Official fees (payable to the government)

Item	Amount	Notes
USCIS — Form I-140 (EB-1A Petition)	$715	—
Adjustment of Status or Consular Stage (Form I-485 / DS-260)	$1,440	—

Government fees are set by the issuing authority and may change without notice. We’ll confirm current rates during onboarding.

Eligibility

Show extraordinary ability with national or international recognition.
Provide proof of achievements in science, arts, business, education, or athletics.
Meet at least three of the ten USCIS criteria or hold a major international award.
Plan to continue working in the same field in the U.S.
Demonstrate that your contribution benefits the United States.

Key benefits

Self-petition option without employer or labor certification.
Direct route to U.S. permanent residency (Green Card).
Faster visa availability under the EB-1A preference category.
Premium processing available for expedited results.
Spouse and children under 21 can also apply for Green Cards.

Checklist

Document checklist

14 total items

Documents vary by profile; we’ll tailor your list.

Identity and Civil Documents

2 items

Valid passport and government-issued photo ID
Birth certificate and proof of civil status

Proof of Extraordinary Ability

9 items

National or international awards and recognition certificates
Membership in professional associations with selective criteria
Published articles or media coverage highlighting achievements
Evidence of judging work or contributions of others
Proof of original contributions with major impact in the field
Authorship of scholarly or creative publications
Evidence of leading or key roles in reputed organizations
Documents showing high salary or exceptional earnings
Proof of commercial or artistic success in the performing arts

Supporting Evidence

3 items

Recommendation letters from credible experts in the field
Proof of intent to continue work in the area of expertise
Contracts, business plans, or U.S. project evidence supporting future activity

Snapshot

Eligible dependents

2 of 4 categories included

IncludedNot included

Spouse: Included
Yes
Children: Up to 21 years21
Yes
Parents: Not included
No
Siblings: Not included
No

Application process

Process

How it works

6 steps

Step 1: Evaluate eligibility
Determine if your profile meets EB-1A extraordinary ability requirements.
GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
Step 2: Prepare documentation
Gather supporting evidence such as awards, publications, memberships, and recommendation letters.
GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
Step 3: Submit Form I-140
File the EB-1A immigrant petition with USCIS; self-petition is allowed.
GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
Step 4: Proceed with status adjustment or consular processing
File Form I-485 in the U.S. or DS-260 abroad once the petition is approved.
GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
Step 5: Attend biometrics and interview
Complete necessary appointments with USCIS or at a U.S. consulate.
GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks
Step 6: Obtain Green Card
Receive U.S. permanent residency upon approval of your EB-1A application.
GuidedAvg. 2–4 weeks