Friday, November 7, 2025

EB-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa: The Fast Track to a U.S. Green Card

                                  LAW OFFICE OF ELWALEED AHMED, PLLC

45 4th Avenue , Brooklyn, NY 11217

Between Dean Street & Bergin Street

Elwaleed M Ahmed, Esq.

Attorney at Law

Telephone: 718-422-0202-Cell: 973-725-4669- Fax: 718-679-9124



EB-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa: The Fast Track to a U.S. Green Card

By Elwaleed Ahmed, Esq.
Licensed Attorney in New York since 2008 | 18+ Years of Immigration Law Experience


Introduction

For individuals who have achieved a high level of recognition in their field, the EB-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa offers one of the fastest and most direct paths to U.S. permanent residency. Unlike many other visas, it does not require a job offer or employer sponsorship—you can petition for yourself.

Over nearly two decades of practice, I have helped professionals, researchers, artists, athletes, and entrepreneurs navigate this process successfully, securing 10-year Green Cards for them and their families.


Why the EB-1 Visa Stands Out

The EB-1 visa is often described as the “extraordinary ability green card” because it is designed for those who have risen to the top of their profession. Some key advantages include:

  • Self-petition option – no employer or sponsor required.
  • Premium processing available – receive results in as little as 15 days.
  • Family eligibility – spouses and children are included in the application.
  • Direct path to a 10-year Green Card – with fewer hurdles compared to other categories.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Prepare and file Form I-140 with evidence of extraordinary ability.
  2. Choose premium processing (optional) to expedite review to two weeks.
  3. Receive USCIS approval – your case is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC).
  4. Attend your consular interview (or adjust status if already in the U.S.).
  5. Obtain your 10-year Green Card and begin your life in the United States.

Who Qualifies?

There are two main qualification routes:

1. Major International Award

If you have received a prestigious award such as the Nobel Prize, this alone may qualify you.

2. Meeting Three of Ten Criteria

For applicants without a single international award, USCIS requires proof of at least three of the following:

  • Evidence of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes/awards.
  • Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement.
  • Published material about your work in major media or journals.
  • Original contributions of major significance in your field.
  • Authorship of scholarly or professional articles.
  • Display of work in exhibitions or showcases.
  • Leadership or critical role in distinguished organizations.
  • High salary compared to others in the field.
  • Commercial success in the performing arts.
  • Judging the work of others in your field.

Why Act Now?

Given increasing global competition and changing U.S. immigration policies, securing an EB-1 visa today may be easier than waiting until regulations become stricter. For professionals at the top of their field, this is a rare opportunity to gain permanent residency quickly and efficiently.


Final Thoughts

The EB-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa is more than just an immigration pathway—it is recognition of your professional achievements and your value to the United States. With its flexibility, speed, and family benefits, it remains one of the most powerful options for qualified applicants.


📌 About the Author
Elwaleed Ahmed is a New York-licensed immigration attorney with over 18 years of experience. His practice focuses on helping individuals and families achieve their American dream through the EB-1 and other U.S. immigration pathways.