The EB1B visa is designed for outstanding professors and researchers with international recognition in a specific academic area. Qualifications for this visa require a minimum of 3 years of teaching and/or research experience in the academic field, as well as a job offer as a professor or researcher from a U.S. university, institute of higher education, or a private employer.

This immigrant visa allows the recipient, their spouse, and eligible children to obtain green cards. Notably, the EB1B visa bypasses the often cumbersome labor certification process, streamlining the hiring process for prospective U.S. employers.

2. Benefits of an EB1B Visa

i. Immigrant Visa: The EB1B visa is an immigrant visa, granting the holder and their family the opportunity to obtain green cards. This allows for flexible travel to and from the United States, along with work authorization and access to education for the visa holder’s spouse and children.

ii. No Labor Certification Required: Unlike many other employment-based immigrant visas, the EB1B visa does not necessitate an approved labor certification, making it a more straightforward option for U.S. employers.

iii. Lower Standard than EB1A Extraordinary Ability: The EB1B visa requires international recognition as outstanding in your field, which, while still high, is a less stringent criterion than the EB1A visa’s requirement of extraordinary ability.

EB1B Visa Requirements

To qualify for an EB1B visa, you must meet the following main requirements:

i. International Recognition: You must demonstrate international recognition as being outstanding in your academic field, meeting at least 2 of 6 evidentiary criteria such as major awards, association memberships, published materials about your work, or participation as a judge or contributor in your academic field.

ii. 3 Years of Teaching or Research: A minimum of 3 years of teaching and/or research experience in your academic field is required.

iii. U.S. Job Offer: You must have a job offer from a U.S. university or institution for higher learning to work as a teacher or researcher, or from a private employer for a research position in your academic field.

Documents Required for an EB1B Visa

The documents needed for an EB1B visa application can vary based on individual qualifications. However, typical documents include:

• Awards and recognition for outstanding achievements.
• Evidence of membership in academic associations.
• Letters from former employers explaining job duties and responsibilities.
• A written job offer from a U.S. employer.
• Letters of endorsement from experts in your field.
• Copy of passport.
• Resume.