EB-1B
Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker (Outstanding Professors/Researchers)
For internationally recognized professors and researchers with outstanding achievements and at least three years of experience in their field.
26 petitions · 26 approved / sustained · 0 denied / dismissed · 0 remanded
The EB-1B visa is an employment-based first-preference immigrant visa for outstanding professors and researchers who have been internationally recognized for their achievements in a specific academic field. Unlike EB-1A, the EB-1B requires a job offer and sponsorship from a qualifying U.S. employer.
Category
EB-1B
Priority
1st Preference
Self-Petition
Not Available
Benefits & Limitations
First-preference processing means shorter waiting times compared to other EB categories. No labor certification (PERM) required. However, employer sponsorship is mandatory — self-petitioning is not available.
Filing Guide
Employer Files I-140
U.S. employer files Form I-140 on your behalf with supporting evidence.
USCIS Review
USCIS evaluates evidence of outstanding achievement. RFE possible.
Decision
Approval, denial, or NOID.
Adjust Status
File I-485 (if in U.S.) or consular processing abroad.
Required Documents
Proof of academic achievements and international recognition
Letters of recommendation from prominent experts
Documentation of awards and prizes
Proof of scholarly publications and authorship
Employer sponsorship letter with job details
Evidence of teaching or research contributions
Proof of 3+ years of experience in the field
Timeline
Standard
6 – 12 mo
Premium
15 days
Costs & Fees
Recent Petitions
View allRecent Policy Updates
Evolving interpretations of 'outstanding professor or researcher' standards
Increased scrutiny on employer sponsorship requirements and qualifying entities
Processing delays and shifts in priority date availability
Stricter documentation requirements for proving international recognition