EB-1B Outstanding Researchers

EB-1A is self-petition for anyone at the top of their field (any field — sciences, business, arts, athletics) and requires NO employer. EB-1B requires an employer sponsor and is limited to outstanding professors and researchers in an academic field. EB-1A requires 3 of 10 criteria; EB-1B requires 2 of 6.

No. A tenure-track position works, as does any permanent research position. For private-sector R&D, the employer must have at least 3 full-time researchers and documented research accomplishments.

With premium processing, the I-140 is adjudicated within 15 business days. Standard processing typically takes 4-8 months. As of 2026, EB-1 visa numbers are current for most countries (India and China are exceptions).

Postdocs typically do not qualify because the position is not permanent. Some senior research scientist positions at national labs or industry R&D centers do qualify if they meet the 'permanent research position' standard. We assess case by case.

(1) Major prizes for outstanding achievement; (2) Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement; (3) Published material in major media about your work; (4) Judging others' work in the field; (5) Original contributions of major significance; (6) Authorship of scholarly books or articles in major outlets. You must meet at least 2 of the 6.

Yes. You can file all three simultaneously if your evidence supports each, and pursue whichever is approved first. We often recommend dual or triple filings for strong researchers who want maximum optionality.