EB-1A Visa: Self-Petition US Visa for Extraordinary Talent Explained

Expanding opportunities in the United States can feel like a dream for global talent at the top of their fields. But that dream often runs into a wall of red tape. The US immigration system, especially for employment-based visas, can be confusing and time-consuming.

The EB-1A visa offers a distinct advantage for individuals with extraordinary abilities: It allows them to self-petition for permanent residency in the US without the need for employer sponsorship.

Even with this flexibility, many high-achieving professionals are left wondering: Do my accomplishments qualify? How do I prove my track record? What does a strong petition look like without employer sponsorship?

At Deel, we understand how overwhelming this process can be. With a 98% approval rate and an expert team dedicated to guiding applicants, Deel Immigration is redefining how top-tier talent moves across borders.

This article breaks down the benefits, required qualifications, and strategies to fast-track your EB-1A visa. Imagine transitioning to the US stress-free, with a green card that offers a clear path to US citizenship after five years. Let Deel show you how to make that vision a reality.

What is the EB-1A visa?

The EB-1A visa is a subcategory of the EB-1 (employment-based, first-preference) immigrant visa category within US immigration law. It is intended for individuals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in their professional fields, such as:

• Sciences
• Arts
• Education
• Business
• Athletics

The EB-1A visa allows individuals to pursue permanent residency in the US. If approved, you receive a green card and can apply for full US citizenship after five years.

Unlike other EB-1 subcategories, the EB-1A allows you to petition without an employer’s sponsorship. It does not require a specific job offer or labor certification. But you must continue working in your field of extraordinary ability after moving to the US.

You can include your spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 as eligible dependents. If approved, they may receive residency under E-14 or E-15 immigrant status.

It is advisable to use immigration lawyers to guide you through the process of securing residency for your dependents. With Deel, expert support is available 24/7 directly from your dashboard. Beyond advice, our team actively manages the filings to ensure your family meets all requirements to relocate with you.

Before applying for US residency using this visa, consult with an immigration attorney on your eligibility status. Have them review your supporting evidence to ascertain your chances of success. Deel offers a free consultation to check your eligibility and get personalized advice tailored to your profile and goals.

See also: Worldwide Visa Support for Dependents: A Guide for Businesses

How is the EB-1A visa different from other EB-1 visas?

The EB-1 category includes three distinct subcategories: EB-1A, EB-1B, and EB-1C. All provide a path to permanent residency without requiring labor certification, but they differ in key areas.

Unlike EB-1B and EB-1C applicants who rely on employer-led filings, EB-1A applicants must navigate the petition on their own. But government resources are often outdated or unclear, making it hard to know how to structure your case.

With Deel, you get a guided, hands-off experience. Once you’re onboarded to our platform, a dedicated case manager helps coordinate your entire application. All you need to do is provide your details and upload documents as requested. You can follow progress in real-time with status updates and personalized notes from your case manager.

See also: L-1A Visa vs EB-1C Visa

What is the difference between the EB-1A and other employment-based visas?

The EB-1A visa is distinct in that it targets a select group of individuals recognized for their extraordinary abilities.

Unlike the EB-2 and EB-3 visas, the EB-1 category does not necessitate a labor certification. And with the EB-1A sub-category, you don’t need a job offer. This gives you greater flexibility in how you structure your career.

You are not tied to a single employer and can pursue a wide range of opportunities, including launching a business, taking on consulting work, or working for multiple organizations, as long as the work remains within your field of extraordinary ability.

In return for this flexibility, the EB-1A requires a much higher standard of proof.

As a first-preference visa, the EB-1A has shorter processing times than other employment-based visas. USCIS also offers premium processing for it, allowing them to issue a decision within 15 days.

See also: Self Petitioned Green Cards: EB-1A and EB-2 NIW

Does the EB-1A visa require sponsorship?

No, a unique aspect of the EB-1A visa is the ability for individuals to self-petition. This means that you can file for immigration without the direct sponsorship of an employer, a rare feature among US visa categories. Your professional achievements and reputation can serve as the foundation for your application.

It is a strong option for top talent seeking to move to the US independently.

See also: The EB-1 vs EB-2 Explained

Who qualifies for an EB-1A visa?

Many different types of experts may qualify for the EB-1A. For example, a startup founder may qualify for the EB-1A visa if they have a strong record of business success. This could include holding critical roles at companies, being featured in media articles, and earning a high salary. Anyone at the top of their field is a potential candidate.

As an applicant, you must meet at least 3 of the 10 eligibility criteria. You can also qualify by showing proof of a major one-time achievement, such as a Pulitzer, Oscar, or Olympic medal.

You must provide evidence that you will continue working in your area of expertise and that your entry into the US will be of substantial benefit to the country in the future.

This is the 10 eligibility criteria for demonstrating extraordinary ability:

1. Receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence
2. Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement of their members
3. Published material about you in professional or major trade publications and other major media
4. Participation as a judge of others in the same or an allied field
5. Original contributions of major significance
6. Authorship of scholarly articles
7. Artistic exhibitions or showcases
8. Leading or critical role in distinguished organizations
9. High salary or other significant remuneration in comparison to others
10. Commercial successes in the performing arts

See also: How to Read and Understand the Visa Bulletin

How do you prove extraordinary ability for an EB-1A visa?

Proving extraordinary ability for an EB-1A visa involves presenting documentation that highlights your qualifications and recognition in your field. You can supply a wide range of potential evidence, such as:

• Evidence of having commanded a high salary or other remuneration for services
• Authorship of scholarly articles in the field
• Performance in a critical role for distinguished organizations
• Commercial successes in the performing arts

Provide a thorough portfolio that showcases sustained national or international acclaim and outstanding achievements.

USCIS officers use two steps to determine if your evidence meets the eligibility criteria:

Step 1: Officers determine whether the submitted documentation objectively satisfies at least three of the ten regulatory criteria or a one-time achievement, such as commanding a major internationally recognized award. This step focuses on whether each piece of evidence fits the definitions set out in the regulations.

Step 2: Once the regulatory criteria are met, officers then evaluate the quality and significance of the evidence as a whole. This step involves determining whether you have sustained national or international acclaim and whether you are among the top small percentage of your field.

To provide clearer guidance, USCIS has clarified how it interprets some criteria:

• Team awards count under the criterion for nationally or internationally recognized prizes, as long as the applicant played a key role in earning the award
• Past memberships in associations that require outstanding achievements may qualify under the membership criterion, not just current memberships
• Published material doesn’t need to demonstrate the value of the applicant’s work to satisfy the criterion, as long as the material discusses the person and their contributions
• Artistic exhibitions are interpreted strictly. Only exhibitions related to the arts count under this criterion

By working with Deel, you don’t have to second-guess your evidence. Our legal experts walk you through every requirement, help you gather the strongest documentation, and shape your case to meet USCIS standards.

See also: EB-2 NIW: Self-Petition Visa for Exceptional Talent Explained

How to apply for the EB-1A visa

1. Gather documentation and prepare your evidence portfolio.

2. File Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) by mail to the appropriate USCIS lockbox, based on your location. A base fee of $715 plus an additional $300 Asylum Program fee applies.

3. After approval, your next step depends on where you are:

• If you are outside the US: The USCIS will forward your petition to the National Visa Center (NVC) to initiate consular processing. The NVC will request your DS‑260 Immigrant Visa Application, civil documents, visa fees, and other country-specific requirements
• If you’re inside the US: You may be eligible to file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) to apply for a green card without leaving the country

4. You may need to attend a biometric appointment and then an in-person interview.

5. If you are applying through consular processing, your passport will be stamped with an immigrant visa, allowing you to enter the US as a permanent resident. Your green card will be mailed to your US address after arrival.
If you are adjusting status within the US, your green card will be mailed directly to your US address once approved.

EB-1A visa processing can take up to nine months, unless you request expedited processing by paying the premium fees of $2,805. If you request expedited processing, USCIS will decide your application within 15 calendar days.

See also: How to Prepare for Your US Visa Interview: Tips from Immigration Experts

How does the EB-1A visa impact global hiring?

The EB-1A visa plays a central role in global hiring. It allows US companies to attract and retain top-tier talent from around the world without the constraint of the labor certification process (PERM) required by other visa categories.

This assists the entry of highly skilled individuals who can contribute significantly to innovation and improve an organization’s competitiveness within the US economy.

The presence of such talent helps foster growth, making the EB-1A a key tool for companies aiming to maintain an edge in global markets.

See also: A Guide to Finding Global Talent

What are the legal and compliance issues for EB-1A visas?

Applying for the EB-1A visa involves strict legal and compliance requirements. Your documents must meet USCIS standards for extraordinary ability.

To ensure full compliance and avoid delays or denials, it’s important to work with experienced immigration experts. Deel’s in-house legal team offers country-specific expertise and personalized support to help you meet both US and local immigration standards.

See also: How Deel Is Reinventing the Immigration Journey

Fast-track your US visa with Deel Immigration

Deel Immigration is transforming the immigration process. It offers a streamlined experience that blends AI-powered tools with personalized expert support, ensuring a transparent and smooth immigration journey.

Deel’s user-friendly platform features:

• Self-serve functionality
• An application status timeline
• Real-time status updates
• Access to a dedicated case manager
• Exclusive relocation services
• Centralized document management
• Access to multilingual immigration experts and attorneys

This keeps you well-informed and supported throughout the process.

Schedule your free consultation today. Connect with the Deel Immigration team to expedite your visa process and start your US journey.