Immigrant Visa
EB-1 — Extraordinary Ability / Outstanding / Executive
EB-1A (extraordinary ability, no job offer, no PERM, self-petition), EB-1B (outstanding researcher/professor), and EB-1C (multinational executive). Brazilians have no backlog. Premium Processing available.
The three EB-1 subcategories
| Category | For whom | Job offer |
|---|---|---|
| EB-1A — Extraordinary Ability | Scientists, artists, athletes, executives with exceptional recognition | Not required (self-petition) |
| EB-1B — Outstanding Researcher/Professor | 3+ years + international recognition | Yes, by academic institution |
| EB-1C — Multinational Executive | Exec/manager 1+ year at foreign entity tied to US entity | Yes, by sponsoring company |
Brazilians: all three CURRENT in 2026. EB-1C doesn't require PERM — direct route after L-1A.
EB-1A: 10 criteria (meet 3)
USCIS evaluates whether you meet at least 3 of the 10 criteria:
- Nationally or internationally recognized awards
- Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement
- Published material about you in specialized or mainstream media
- Judging the work of others in your field
- Original scientific/academic/business contributions of major significance
- Scholarly articles in prestigious journals
- Display of your work at artistic exhibitions or showcases
- Leading or critical role in distinguished organizations
- High salary compared to others in your field
- Commercial success in the performing arts
EB-1C — the direct L-1A route
For Brazilian L-1A executives, EB-1C is the most efficient green-card route: same employer, no PERM, 6–12 months with Premium Processing. Brazilians have CURRENT queue — total 18–36 months from initial L-1A to permanent green card.
Cost
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| USCIS I-140 fee | $715 |
| Asylum Program Fee | $600 |
| Premium Processing | $2,965 |
| USCIS I-485 fee | $1,440/person |
| Pinho Law EB-1A fees | $10,000–15,000 |
| Pinho Law EB-1C fees | $8,500–13,500 |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Nobel Prize for EB-1A?
No. EB-1A has two paths: (1) a single internationally acclaimed award ("Nobel-equivalent"), OR (2) three of the 10 criteria. The vast majority use the 10-criteria route.
What's the difference between EB-1A and EB-2 NIW?
EB-1A requires "extraordinary ability" (top of field). EB-2 NIW requires advanced-degree professional with national-interest work. EB-1A is stricter, but EB-1 queue can be faster.
Can I self-petition for EB-1A?
Yes. EB-1A is one of two categories that allow self-petition (the other is EB-2 NIW).
Does EB-1C require PERM?
No. This is EB-1C's advantage over EB-2/EB-3 for executives — saves 12–18 months and avoids employer tie-in.
How long does EB-1 take for Brazilians?
With Premium Processing: 45 business days for I-140. Total to green card: 10–16 months via AOS, 12–18 months via consular.
Can I use L-1A as a bridge to EB-1C?
Yes, and it's the most common route. Enter on L-1A, establish US operation 6–12 months, file EB-1C with the same employer.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule a consultation today. We will listen, assess your situation, and give you a clear path forward — in the language you are most comfortable with.