EB-1A Green Card
The EB-1A visa is a special immigration category that allows individuals who stand out for their extraordinary achievements in the United States to obtain permanent residency (Green Card). This category is aimed at individuals who have gained international recognition in fields such as science, arts, education, business, or sports, and it is a program that only the top achievers can apply for.
The EB-1A classification is one of the most prestigious pathways in the U.S. immigration system and is one of the rare types of visas that does not require employer sponsorship. Applicants are evaluated based on a petition filed on their behalf, which is based on the direct recognition of their achievements.
Requirements for Extraordinary Ability Status
Candidates applying for EB-1A must prove that they possess "extraordinary abilities that are recognized nationally or internationally on an ongoing basis".
This is typically demonstrated by meeting at least three of the following criteria:
Having received awards or certificates of achievement recognized at a national or international level,
Memberships in professional associations in the applicant's field and the requirement that these memberships be based on exceptional achievements,
News articles, publications, or reviews about the individual appearing in respected media outlets or academic publications,
Having served as reviewer, jury member, or in evaluation roles in their field,
Providing significant original contributions (research, artwork, innovations, etc.),
Holding leadership or critical positions in reputable organizations,
Having their works recognized and widely used in leading circles in their field,
Being recognized by demonstrating high income or other indicators of earnings in the arts or sports fields.
During the application process, each candidate's success is not limited to these criteria; the entirety of their career history, international impact, and professional reputation is evaluated together.
Application Process and Evaluation
The EB-1A process consists of two main stages:
Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker):
The candidate submits this form on their behalf based on their extraordinary abilities. Employer sponsorship is not required.
Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status):
If in the U.S., the status change is processed; if outside the U.S., the green card application is completed through consular processing.
USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) evaluates the documentation submitted with the application comprehensively to assess the candidate's level of extraordinary ability. It is important that the documents regarding the applicant's career during the process are consistent, objective, and measurable.
Advantages of the EB-1A Visa
No sponsor required: The application can be made directly by the individual.
Permanent residency (Green Card): Once approved, the individual obtains the right to permanent residency for themselves, their spouse, and children under 21 years old.
Fast processing time: Applications with the Premium Processing option can typically be evaluated within 15 business days.
Flexibility: Changes in job, industry, or employer do not affect the visa after the application.
Family Members
EB-1A visa holders can also file immigration applications for their spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old.
Spouses can obtain EAD (Employment Authorization Document) to work in the U.S.; children can legally continue their education.
The Approach of Karakaşlıoğlu Law Firm
Every EB-1A case is not just about gathering documents — each one is a professional presentation of a success story.
Our firm restructures our clients' past work in accordance with USCIS criteria, strategically compiles the elements that document their achievements, and prepares each case within a personalized “case theory” framework.
Our aim is not just to obtain a Green Card approval but to build a strong, permanent legal foundation for your professional life in America.
