Allows foreign nationals to live and work permanently in the United States based on their skills, professional achievements, or investment contributions.
EB-1: First Preference
For individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors/researchers, or multinational executives/managers:
- Extraordinary Ability: Must show exceptional talent in areas like sciences, arts, or business through recognized achievements. No job offer needed.
- Outstanding Professors/Researchers: International recognition in an academic field with 3+ years of experience; job offer required.
- Multinational Executives/Managers: Must have held a managerial or executive role with the same company abroad for at least 1 year.
EB-2: Second Preference
For professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability:
- Advanced Degree: Requires a master’s degree (or equivalent) or a bachelor’s plus 5 years of progressive experience.
- Exceptional Ability: Significant expertise above the norm in sciences, arts, or business.
- National Interest Waiver: Can self-petition if your work benefits the U.S. (e.g., economically, educationally).
EB-3: Third Preference
For skilled workers, professionals, and unskilled workers:
- Skilled Workers: Jobs requiring at least 2 years of experience or training.
- Professionals: Requires at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Unskilled Workers: Labor requiring less than 2 years of training or experience.
EB-4: Fourth Preference
For special immigrants, including:
Religious workers, broadcasters, translators, Iraqi/Afghan allies, NATO employees, and others.
Spouses and children may also qualify.
EB-5: Fifth Preference
For investors in U.S. businesses:
- New Business: Invest $1M (or $500K in a high-unemployment/rural area), create 10 full-time U.S. jobs, and actively manage the business.
- Troubled Business: Invest similarly in a business with significant losses, maintaining job levels.
- Regional Center Program: Invest in a USCIS-designated economic region to create indirect jobs.
