EB-1 Priority Workers
The first employment preference: extraordinary ability, outstanding researchers, and multinational executives or managers.
Last verified: 2026-09-07
General overview
EB-1 covers three sub-groups: individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business or athletics; outstanding professors and researchers; and certain multinational executives or managers. Extraordinary-ability cases may be self-petitioned, while the other two sub-groups generally require an employer.
Main application stages
- 1Evidence audit and strategy with authorized U.S. counsel
- 2Immigrant petition prepared and filed by counsel
- 3Visa availability monitoring where applicable
- 4Consular processing or adjustment of status
Who may consider this pathway
- Researchers, academics and highly recognized professionals
- Award-winning artists, athletes and business figures
- Multinational executives and managers already transferred or transferring
General eligibility considerations
- Sustained national or international recognition, evidenced objectively
- Published work, citations, awards, memberships or leading roles
- For researchers, an offer of a qualifying position
- For executives, a qualifying multinational relationship and role
Common documentation categories
- Publications, citation reports and peer-review records
- Awards, media coverage and membership evidence
- Expert reference letters
- Employment and corporate documentation where relevant
Important limitations
- The evidentiary standard is high and discretionary
- Kohanbaba does not assess whether your record meets EB-1 criteria
- Approval and timelines are never guaranteed
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a job offer?
It depends on the sub-group. Extraordinary-ability petitions may be self-filed; the other groups generally require an employer. Confirm with counsel.
What can Kohanbaba do here?
We can help you assemble and organize your professional record so an authorized U.S. attorney can review it efficiently.
Official sources
Last verified: 2026-09-07
Related pathways
Family-Based Immigration
Immigrant categories based on a qualifying family relationship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
Employment-Based Immigration
An overview of the preference categories used for permanent residence through work.
L-1 Intracompany Transferee
A temporary classification for transfers within a related international company.