EB-1, EB2 NIW, and O-1 visas offer various advantages for highly talented individuals in fields such as academia, business, arts, and sports who wish to immigrate or gain the ability to work in the U.S.
EB-1 Visa
The EB-1 visa is a prestigious visa that grants permanent residency and work rights in the U.S. to individuals with extraordinary abilities, outstanding academics, researchers, and multinational company executives. It stands out for not requiring a job offer and for its relatively fast processing. EB-1 allows individuals who have demonstrated their talents at a national or international level to directly apply for a Green Card.
EB-1 Visa
EB-2 NIW Visa
EB2 NIW Visa
The EB2 NIW visa (National Interest Waiver) offers individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities in fields like science, art, or business the right to apply for a Green Card without a job offer or a labor certification (PERM).
Applicants must instead demonstrate that their expertise benefits the national interests of the U.S. EB2 NIW is particularly appealing to professionals who wish to immigrate without having to deal with the hassle of securing a job first.
O-1 Visa
The O-1 visa is a non-immigrant work visa for individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields like science, art, sports, education, or business. Thanks to its “dual intent” feature, O-1 visa holders can apply for a Green Card while living in the U.S. This visa is flexible, allowing unlimited renewals, and provides an opportunity for individuals who have achieved outstanding success in their particular fields to live and work in the U.S.
Similarities and Differences
While these visas are all similar in the fact that they offer the ability to immigrate to the U.S. and continue your careers here, there are some key differences.
Both EB-1 and EB2 NIW visas allow for direct Green Card applications. While the O-1 visa does not offer a direct path to a Green Card, it allows for unlimited renewals, effectively extending the duration of work and residency.
After obtaining the O-1 visa, applicants can also change their status to directly apply for a Green Card.
The criteria for obtaining an O-1 visa are generally lower than those for EB2 NIW and EB-1 visas, making it relatively easier to obtain.
The criteria for obtaining an O-1 visa are generally lower than those for EB2 NIW and EB-1 visas, making it relatively easier to obtain.
All three visa types allow the applicant’s family to live in the U.S.
With EB-1 and EB2 NIW visas, the applicant's family also receives Green Cards.
Premium processing, which provides a decision within 15 days of the application, can be purchased for all three visas.
We don’t apply a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, we tailor every step of the process to suit the individual needs of our clients and present the strongest possible case.