To properly keep track of the different types of people who want to immigrate to the United States, the government allows for people to apply for a variety of different visas. One group of visas, the employment-based visas, have several categories in themselves. The group that is potentially most desirable to the government is first preference individuals.

Employment-based visas, or EB visas, are divided up into five levels. First preference individuals are given EB-1 status, while fifth preference immigrants have EB-5 visas. It is important to note that EB-5 visa holders are still important to the United States. EB-5 is for immigrant investors, or people who plan to come to the U.S. to start a new company that will open up at least 10 full-time jobs. This can give a much-needed boost to the economy.

First preference individuals are characterized by worldwide acclaim or other internationally recognized work or importance. The U.S. allows three groups of people to seek EB-1 visas: those with “extraordinary abilities,” as well as “outstanding professors and researchers,” and “multinational managers or executives.” For each of these groups, you must meet certain requirements proving that you have the global impact necessary to elevate you to first preference status.

To display extraordinary ability, a person must show that he or she has won an important achievement award such as an Oscar or Pulitzer. If the person has not earned one of these awards, he or she must show that he or she has met other requirements. For a person applying for first preference EB-1, no offer of employment from an American is necessary. However, for those applying as professors, researchers, or executives, you must show an offer of employment or have the employer petition for you. Additionally, if you are a professor or researcher, you must have examples of published work or prizes won, among other things.

Guest Post Author

Garg & Associates
Orange County immigration