Extraordinary Ability Green Card – A Fast Track to U.S. Permanent Residency
What is the EB-1A Visa?
The EB-1A Visa is a first-preference employment-based green card designed for individuals with extraordinary ability in science, arts, education, business, or athletics. Unlike other employment-based green cards, EB-1A does not require an employer sponsor, making it a top choice for self-petitioning professionals with outstanding achievements in their fields.
At Wang Law LLC, we provide comprehensive legal services to help qualified individuals obtain the EB-1A green card efficiently.
Key Benefits of the EB-1A Visa
- Fast-track green card with current priority dates for most countries, leading to faster processing times.
- No employer sponsorship required, allowing applicants to self-petition.
- Permanent residency for the applicant’s spouse and children under 21.
- Dual intent visa, allowing applicants to apply for a green card while in the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa such as H-1B, O-1, or F-1.
Who Qualifies for an EB-1A Visa?
To qualify for EB-1A, an applicant must demonstrate extraordinary ability in their field by meeting at least three of the ten USCIS criteria or by providing proof of a one-time major international award, such as a Nobel Prize, Pulitzer Prize, Olympic Medal, or Academy Award.
EB-1A Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet at least three of the following ten criteria:
- Receipt of nationally or internationally recognized awards or prizes for excellence.
- Membership in associations that require outstanding achievements.
- Published material in professional or major trade publications about the applicant.
- Participation as a judge evaluating the work of others in the field.
- Original contributions of major significance in the field.
- Authorship of scholarly articles in professional or major media.
- Display of work at significant exhibitions or showcases.
- Holding a leading or critical role in a distinguished organization.
- Earning a high salary or remuneration compared to others in the field.
- Achievements leading to commercial success in the performing arts.
USCIS evaluates applications holistically, so a strong personal statement and letters of recommendation from recognized experts can significantly strengthen a case.
EB-1A Visa Application Process
Step 1: Gather Supporting Evidence
Applicants must collect documentation proving they meet the required extraordinary ability criteria, including certificates of awards, membership confirmations, published articles, and letters from industry experts.
Step 2: File Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)
- The applicant or their attorney files Form I-140 with USCIS.
- Standard processing time is six to twelve months, but Premium Processing is available for an additional fee and guarantees a decision within fifteen calendar days.
Step 3: Apply for Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
- Applicants already in the U.S. can file Form I-485 for Adjustment of Status.
- Applicants outside the U.S. must attend an immigrant visa interview at a U.S. consulate.
Step 4: Receive Green Card Approval
Once approved, the applicant and their family will receive permanent residency in the U.S.
Processing Time for EB-1A Visa
The total processing time varies based on USCIS workload and the applicant’s country of birth but typically follows this timeline:
- Form I-140 Regular Processing: Six to twelve months.
- Form I-140 Premium Processing: Fifteen days.
- Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): Eight to fourteen months.
- Consular Processing: Six to twelve months.
Overall, most applicants receive their green card within one to two years, provided their priority dates remain current.
How Wang Law LLC Can Help You Secure an EB-1A Visa
At Wang Law LLC, we specialize in EB-1A green card applications and provide expert legal guidance throughout the process. Our services include:
- Personalized case evaluation to determine eligibility and strategy.
- Assistance in gathering and organizing supporting evidence.
- Drafting and filing of Form I-140 and all required documents.
- Preparing applicants for USCIS or consular interviews.
Contact Wang Law LLC for EB-1A Visa Assistance
If you are an accomplished professional seeking a U.S. green card through the EB-1A category, our experienced immigration attorneys are ready to guide you.
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Let us help you achieve your American dream with the EB-1A green card.