What is the Difference Between EB1 vs EB2 Visas?
Posted on 22-12-2023 02:55 PM
EB1 and EB2 visas are two different types of immigrant visas that are available to US citizens. A person seeking legal immigration status in the United States must first determine if an EB1 vs EB2 visa best suits their needs. There are several differences between the two, most notably, the criteria for eligibility and processing time.
The EB1 visa is an employment-based green card reserved for “priority workers” such as individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding researchers and professors, and executives or managers of multinational companies. To qualify for this visa, applicants must prove their credentials in one or more of these categories by submitting a petition to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In addition, they must meet certain age requirements (below 40 years old) and have at least three years experience working in their field outside of the U.S. Processing times can vary from 6 months to several years depending on various factors but generally speaking it will take around 1 year for an application to be processed.
On the other hand, EB2 visas are intended specifically for those who possess advanced degrees or exceptional abilities in a particular field that would make them valuable members of society here in America. Unlike EB1 visas, there is no specific age requirement associated with this type of visa; however applicants must still submit evidence proving that they possess exceptional abilities in their area of expertise as well as having three years experience working abroad. Processing times differ from those of EB1s since applications can take anywhere between 2-4 yrs!
Nevertheless both types offer paths towards legal citizenship status within the US although it's important to note that neither guarantees entry into the country nor does either provide permanent residency status right away! Thus applicants should carefully weigh all options before deciding which route is best suited for them depending on their circumstances! Transitioning from one type to another may also be possible depending upon individual cases so it's important to consult with an experienced immigration attorney if there are any questions about the process involved when applying for either type of visa!
Overall, knowing what diff'rence exists between an EB1 vs EB2 visa is crutial when determining what path best suits your neccesity needs when applying for legal immigrations status within the US!!