EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 Visas Explained: Employment-Based Green Cards for Professionals

For many professionals, a U.S. green card represents more than just the right to work in the United States. It opens the door to long-term stability, career growth, and the ability to build a future in the United States.

One of the most common ways to secure permanent residency is through employment-based immigration. Among the five preference categories, the first three — EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 — cover the largest share of applicants. Each category has unique eligibility standards, processing requirements, and strategic considerations.

This guide breaks down the essentials of EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 visas so you can understand how they work, who qualifies, and what the path to a green card looks like.

EB-1: For the Top of the Field

The EB-1 category is designed for individuals who have already reached the highest levels of their profession. It targets three groups:

• Extraordinary ability workers in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.
• Outstanding professors and researchers with international recognition.
• Multinational managers and executives transferring to a U.S. office of their organization.

What sets EB-1 apart is its emphasis on documented achievement. Applicants must provide proof of recognition at the national or international level. This could include:

• Major awards.
• Published research.
• High-profile leadership roles.
• Other significant contributions in their field.

Unlike most other categories, extraordinary ability applicants do not need a job offer or labor certification. That exception makes EB-1 a particularly appealing choice for individuals who can clearly demonstrate exceptional accomplishments.

Another advantage is the shorter wait time. Because EB-1 petitions often avoid the labor certification process, they can move more quickly than other categories. That speed can make a meaningful difference for individuals who need to secure residency in a timely manner.

Still, the bar is high. Many talented professionals find that they do not quite meet the “extraordinary ability” threshold. For those individuals, EB-2 may offer a more realistic path.

EB-2: Advanced Degrees and Exceptional Ability

The EB-2 category covers two primary groups:

• Professionals with advanced degrees (master’s degree or higher, or a bachelor’s degree plus at least five years of progressive experience).
• Individuals with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business, demonstrated by substantial documentation.

Most EB-2 petitions require both a U.S. employer sponsor and a labor certification from the Department of Labor. The labor certification, known as PERM, confirms that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the role. This process can be time-consuming, but it is a critical safeguard in the immigration system.

An important exception exists: the National Interest Waiver (NIW). With an NIW, applicants may bypass the job offer and labor certification requirements if they can demonstrate that their work significantly benefits the United States. Examples include research addressing public health challenges, technology that advances clean energy, or projects supporting U.S. competitiveness in key industries.

The EB-2 category strikes a balance. It has stricter requirements than EB-3 but offers more flexibility than EB-1. For many mid-career professionals, EB-2 is the most natural fit.

EB-3: Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers

EB-3 is the broadest of the three categories and covers:

• Skilled workers with at least two years of training or experience.
• Professionals with a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Other workers performing unskilled labor that requires less than two years of training or experience.

Like EB-2, EB-3 typically requires a permanent job offer and labor certification. Due to high demand, EB-3 petitions frequently experience longer backlogs in visa availability. For nationals of certain countries, wait times can stretch for years.

Despite these challenges, EB-3 remains a vital pathway for both workers and employers. It enables U.S. businesses to fill critical roles when qualified local workers are unavailable, while providing foreign nationals with an opportunity for permanent residency.

Applicants should be prepared for a detailed labor certification process and the need to maintain employment with the sponsoring company until green card approval.

Comparing EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3

While all three categories provide a route to a green card, they differ in important ways:

• Eligibility: EB-1 demands extraordinary or outstanding achievements; EB-2 focuses on advanced degrees or exceptional ability; EB-3 opens the door to a broader range of skilled and professional workers.
• Labor Certification: EB-1 usually does not require it, EB-2 often does, and EB-3 almost always does.
• Processing Time: EB-1 is generally faster, EB-2 varies depending on labor certification and NIW eligibility, and EB-3 can involve the longest waits.

Choosing the right category is rarely a simple decision. It depends on your credentials, your career goals, and the needs of your prospective employer.

Key Considerations for Applicants

If you are exploring an employment-based green card under EB-1, EB-2, or EB-3, keep the following points in mind:

• Documentation matters. Whether you are proving extraordinary ability, advanced education, or work experience, you will need strong, verifiable evidence.
• Employer sponsorship is critical in most cases. With the exception of EB-1 extraordinary ability and EB-2 national interest waivers, you will need an employer willing to sponsor you and navigate the labor certification process.
• Backlogs can affect timing. Check the State Department’s monthly Visa Bulletin to understand how long you may need to wait for a visa number to become available.
• Strategic planning pays off. Some applicants may qualify under more than one category. An experienced immigration attorney can help assess which route offers the best chance of approval with the shortest timeline.

Make Your Next Step Count

Employment-based immigration is complex, but it also creates real opportunities for professionals to secure permanent residency in the United States. EB-1 offers speed and prestige for top achievers, EB-2 provides a strong option for advanced-degree holders and exceptional talent, and EB-3 ensures that a broader range of skilled workers have a path forward.

Each category has its advantages and challenges. By understanding the differences and preparing a thorough case, you can position yourself for success. The right guidance can make all the difference in turning your career achievements into a long-term future in the United States.

At Gendelberg Law, PLLC, we help clients navigate every stage of the EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 process. From assessing eligibility to preparing evidence and managing the application strategy, our team is here to guide you with clarity and experience. If you are ready to explore your options for an employment-based green card, reach out today and make your next step count.