Employment based green cards and categories

Employment-based green cards allow foreign nationals to obtain permanent residency based on their work, skills, or investment in the U.S. economy. They are an important way to attract and retain talent that contributes to various sectors, from technology and education to business and investment

There are five primary employment-based (EB) categories, each with specific eligibility requirements and processes:

EB-1: First Preference

• EB-1A: For individuals with extraordinary ability in their field.
• EB-1B: For outstanding professors and researchers.
• EB-1C: For multinational managers and executives.

EB-2: Second Preference

• EB-2A: For professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability.
• EB-2B: For individuals with exceptional ability in their field.
• National Interest Waiver (NIW): Allows individuals to self-petition if their work benefits the U.S. significantly.

EB-3: Third Preference

• EB-3A: For skilled workers with at least two years of experience.
• EB-3B: For professionals with a bachelor’s degree.
• EB-3C: For unskilled workers performing non-temporary labor.

EB-4: Fourth Preference

• For special immigrants, including religious workers, employees of international organizations, and other specific categories.

EB-5: Fifth Preference

• For investors who invest between $800,000 and $1,050,000 in a new commercial enterprise and create at least ten full-time jobs for U.S. workers.