How many citations do I need for EB1A?

There is no fixed number. USCIS looks at the 'quality' of citations relative to your field. However, being in the top 1% or 10% of your field is a strong indicator.

What qualifies as a major award?

A major internationally recognized award is something on the level of a Nobel Prize, Oscar, or Olympic Medal. Most applicants rely on lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes.

Do I need a job offer for EB1A?

No. EB1A is one of the few Green Card categories that allows you to self-petition. You do not need an employer sponsor.

How long does EB-1A processing take?

Regular processing takes 6-12 months. With Premium Processing ($2,805), USCIS provides a decision within 15 business days.

Can I apply for EB-1A while on H-1B visa?

Yes, you can apply for EB-1A while maintaining H-1B status. EB-1A allows dual intent, so filing won't affect your current visa status.

How to Apply for EB-1A Green Card

A complete step-by-step guide to the EB-1A Extraordinary Ability Green Card application process.

Main Steps

$1,300+

Filing Fees

15 days

Premium Processing

1Assess Your Eligibility

Before starting, determine if you meet at least 3 of the 10 EB-1A criteria.

Use our free calculator to assess your profile
Review the 10 USCIS criteria for extraordinary ability
Identify your strongest evidence areas
Consider consulting an immigration attorney for complex cases

Check Eligibility

2Gather Your Evidence

Collect comprehensive documentation proving your extraordinary ability.

Awards and prizes (certificates, selection criteria, media coverage)
Publications (copies, citation counts, journal impact factors)
Recommendation letters (5-8 from experts, including independent ones)
Media coverage (articles, interviews, features about you)
Salary documentation (tax returns, pay stubs, employment contracts)
Membership proof (association letters, selection criteria)

Evidence Checklist

3Prepare Form I-140

Complete the Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers.

Download Form I-140 from USCIS.gov
Select classification E11 (Extraordinary Ability)
Provide accurate biographical information
No labor certification (PERM) required for EB-1A
No job offer required - self-petition allowed

USCIS Form I-140

4Write Your Petition Letter

Draft a compelling narrative connecting your achievements to EB-1A criteria.

Explain each criterion you're claiming with specific evidence
Use clear, professional language accessible to non-experts
Quantify achievements where possible (citations, revenue, users)
Show sustained national/international acclaim
Demonstrate intent to continue working in your field

5Submit Your Application

File Form I-140 with USCIS along with all supporting materials.

File online or by mail to the appropriate USCIS service center
Pay filing fee: $700 (I-140) + $600 (Asylum Program Fee)
Optional: $2,805 for Premium Processing (15-day response)
Include G-1145 for electronic notification
Keep copies of everything submitted

6After I-140 Approval

Complete the final steps to obtain your Green Card.

If in US: File Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) - can file concurrently if visa is current
If abroad: Complete consular processing at US embassy
Attend biometrics appointment
Complete medical examination
Attend interview (if required)

Filing Fees (2025)

Fee Item	Amount	Required
Form I-140 Filing Fee	$700	Yes
Asylum Program Fee	$600	Yes
Premium Processing (optional)	$2,805	Optional
Form I-485 (if in US)	$1,225	Optional
Biometrics	$85	Optional

Fees subject to change. Check USCIS.gov for current rates.

Ready to Start?

Use our free AI-powered calculator to assess your EB-1A eligibility before applying.

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