EB-1, also known as Employment Based category one is one of many methods to apply for a green card (U.S. permanent residency). EB-1 has three sub-categories:
1.EB-1A Extraordinary Ability
2.EB-1B Outstanding professors and researchers
3.EB-1C Certain Multinational managers or executive
The focus of this article is EB-1A, also nicknamed the “Einstein Visa.” EB-1A is for foreign nationals who are considered to have “extraordinary ability/talent.” This visa is used by professional athletes, actors, singers, musicians, models, chefs, fashion designers, comedians, magicians, graphic artists, and even business professionals. Generally, an applicant for EB-1A must demonstrate that they are at the top of their field. To apply for EB-1A, applicants must satisfy a minimum of 3 out of 10 criteria. The criteria include:
•Evidence of receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence
•Evidence of your membership in associations in the field which demand outstanding achievement of their members
•Evidence of published material about you in professional or major trade publications or other major media
•Evidence that you have been asked to judge the work of others, either individually or on a panel
•Evidence of your original scientific, scholarly, artistic, athletic, or business-related contributions of major significance to the field
•Evidence of your authorship of scholarly articles in professional or major trade publications or other major media
•Evidence that your work has been displayed at artistic exhibitions or showcases
•Evidence of your performance of a leading or critical role in distinguished organizations
•Evidence that you command a high salary or other significantly high remuneration in relation to others in the field
•Evidence of your commercial successes in the performing arts
Notable figures who have reportedly obtained EB-1A status include former first lady Melania Trump, NBA star Dirk Nowitzki, and singer/songwriter John Lennon.
**THIS IS NOT INTENDED TO BE LEGAL ADVICE. EVERY CASE IS DIFFERENT. YOU SHOULD CONSULT AN IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY TO DETERMINE HOW THIS GENERAL INFORMATION IMPACTS YOUR SPECIFIC CASE.