United States EB-1A Extraordinary Ability

United States · Skilled migration · Summary: For top talent in science, the arts, education, business and sport. The bar is extremely high and it is not suited to ordinary applicants.

OutcomePermanent resident (green card)
Capital thresholdAt least 3 of the 10 criteria must be met
Investment / routeExtraordinary ability
Processing timeApprox. 1–3 years (including queue)
Residence requirementNo mandatory residence; the green card must be maintained
CategorySkilled migration
Applicants born in mainland China face a visa queue — the actual timeline must be judged against the Visa Bulletin.

FAQ

How much does United States EB-1A Extraordinary Ability require?

The current threshold is: At least 3 of the 10 criteria must be met. The route is: Extraordinary ability. Beyond the published threshold, expect government fees, legal fees and due diligence costs; actual outlay depends on the firm's quote.

How long until I receive "Permanent resident (green card)"?

The typical processing time is around Approx. 1–3 years (including queue). Actual duration depends on document completeness, background checks and official processing pace, and varies significantly by case.

Is there a residence requirement?

No mandatory residence; the green card must be maintained

Anything specific for mainland Chinese applicants?

Terms may change as authorities adjust them, and practice can differ by consular district and over time. Where cross-border transfers or tax arrangements are involved, consult a professional adviser before filing.

Source: USCIS official site ↗ · Last verified: 2026-09-20 · For reference only; not application or legal advice. Always check the official source for current rules.

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