EB-1 vs EB-2 Visa: Which Green Card Is Right for You?
If you want to live and work in the U.S., EB-1 and EB-2 are two popular employment-based green card options. Both target highly skilled professionals, but they differ in eligibility, whether you need a job offer and labor certification (PERM), and whether you can self-petition via EB-1A or the EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW).
Tip: Always check the latest guidance on the official USCIS EB-1 page and USCIS EB-2 page.
What Is EB-1?
- Who it’s for: Individuals with extraordinary ability (EB-1A), outstanding professors/researchers (EB-1B), and certain multinational executives/managers (EB-1C).
- Labor certification (PERM): Not required for EB-1 categories.
- Self-petition: Allowed for EB-1A (extraordinary ability).
- Good fit for: Internationally recognized researchers, artists, athletes, entrepreneurs, and senior business leaders.
Related reading: EB-1A Evidence Checklist
What Is EB-2 (and NIW)?
- Who it’s for: Professionals with an advanced degree (or equivalent) or exceptional ability.
- Job offer & PERM: Usually required (employer-sponsored EB-2).
- NIW path (self-petition): The National Interest Waiver lets you skip the job offer and PERM if your proposed work has substantial merit and national importance and it benefits the U.S. to waive those requirements.
- Good fit for: Doctors, researchers, engineers, founders, and public-interest professionals whose work advances U.S. priorities.
EB-1 vs EB-2: Key Differences (At a Glance)
| Feature | EB-1 | EB-2 |
|---|---|---|
| Who is it for? | Extraordinary ability, outstanding professors/researchers, multinational execs/managers | Advanced degree or exceptional ability |
| Job offer required? | Not always (EB-1A can self-petition; EB-1B/EB-1C are employer-sponsored) | Usually yes (except NIW) |
| Labor certification (PERM)? | No | Yes (not required under NIW) |
| Self-petition allowed? | EB-1A only | EB-2 NIW only |
| Typical strategy | Strong, well-documented record of national/international acclaim | Prove advanced degree/exceptional ability; if NIW, show national importance and benefit of waiving PERM |
Which One Should You Choose?
EB-1: Best if you’re a top-tier professional with sustained acclaim or a qualifying multinational executive/manager—no PERM needed.
EB-2 NIW: Ideal if you have an advanced degree or exceptional ability and want to self-petition by demonstrating that your work benefits the U.S.
Reality check: Timelines depend on your country of chargeability and visa bulletin backlogs. Always review the monthly Visa Bulletin and current USCIS policies.
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FAQs
Does EB-1 require labor certification (PERM)?
No. EB-1 categories do not require PERM.
Can I apply for EB-2 without a job offer?
Yes, under the EB-2 NIW you can self-petition without a job offer or PERM if you meet NIW criteria.
Is EB-1 always faster?
Often faster due to no PERM step, but actual timing varies with visa availability and case processing.
External references: USCIS EB-1, USCIS EB-2.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not legal advice.
