Live and work in the
U.S. — permanently
The EB-1 visa is one of the fastest ways to get a green card. It’s designed for people at the top of their field—whether you’re a scientist, artist, executive, or professor with international recognition. With no labor certification required and priority processing available, EB-1 is often the go-to choice for high-achieving professionals.
Wondering if You Qualify for an EB-1 Visa?
We break it down for you—no jargon, no confusion. There are three types of EB-1 applicants:
You’ve reached the top of your field—science, arts, business, education, or athletics. You don’t need a sponsor, but you do need a strong record of national or international acclaim.
EB-1A: Extraordinary Ability
You’ve spent years teaching or conducting research and are recognized internationally for your work. A job offer from a U.S. university or research institution is required.
EB-1B: Outstanding Professors & Researchers
You’ve held an executive or managerial role at a multinational company for at least one of the past three years, and you’re being transferred to a U.S. office.
EB-1C: Multinational Executives & Managers
Why Choose the EB1 Visa?
👉 No Labor Certification (PERM) –
Skip the Department of Labor process. This means fewer bureaucratic steps and a quicker start to your petition.
👉 Premium Processing Available –
Get a decision on your I-140 in just 15 business days.Speed up your case when time-sensitive opportunities are on the line.
👉 Green Cards for Your Family –
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 qualify too. They’ll be able to live, work, and study in the U.S. with you.
👉 Faster Timeline –
EB-1 visas typically have current priority dates—no long waiting. This makes EB-1 one of the fastest routes to permanent residency.
How It Works: The EB-1 Application Process
Submit Form I-140
01
This is your petition showing you're eligible.
Choose Your Path
02
👉 If you're already in the U.S., file Form I-485 to adjust your status.
👉 If you’re outside the U.S., go through consular processing (Form DS-260).
Attend a Biometrics Appointment
03
USCIS collects your fingerprints and photo.
Attend Your Interview
04
Either at a USCIS field office or U.S. embassy/consulate.
Receive Your Green Card
05
Live, work, and build your future in the United States.
What You'll Need
Your exact documents depend on which EB-1 category you apply under, but most applicants will need:
👉 Form I-140 and proof of payment
👉 Documentation of your achievements (awards, publications, press, etc.)
👉 Employment offer (for EB-1B and EB-1C)
👉 Proof of work experience (CV, letters, contracts)
👉 Valid passport, birth certificate, and translations
👉 Medical exam results and USCIS biometrics appointment notice
What Can Go Wrong (And How We Prevent It)
Not enough evidence?
We build a compelling, well-documented petition that matches USCIS criteria.
Wrong visa category?
We help you determine which EB-1 path fits your background.
Processing delays?
We monitor every step and use premium processing whenever it’s an option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a sponsor to apply?
Only for EB-1B and EB-1C. EB-1A applicants can self-petition.
How long does the process take?
With premium processing, the I-140 can be approved in as little as 15 business days. The full process varies based on your location and green card route.
Can my family come with me?
Yes. Your spouse and children under 21 qualify for green cards too.
What if I don’t meet every listed criterion?
You don’t need to meet all criteria—just enough to build a strong case. We help identify the best evidence and structure your petition for the strongest impact.
Real People, Real Results
As a startup CEO, I turned to SPLO for my EB-1A visa. Their expertise and responsiveness got my petition approved with no RFE—now my family and I are U.S. permanent residents.
— Anthony M, EB-1A recipient
SPLO handled my EB-1A petition with professionalism and clarity. As an international model, I was approved in just 15 days—and now my spouse and I are U.S. permanent residents.
— M.M, EB-1A recipient
SPLO made my EB-1C transfer process so smooth. Their clear guidance and efficient support helped us every step of the way—and now, we’re proud to be U.S. permanent residents!
— R. Mehta, EB-1A recipient
Shan D Potts
Human Rights Attorney and Global Advocate for Justice
Shan Potts is instinctively oriented with an imaginative mind and an optimistic outlook. Shan has exemplified perseverance, determination, and a profound belief in the power of justice. While his journey boasts significant professional achievements, it's the undercurrent of his indomitable spirit and dedication to fairness that truly sets him apart.
Gil Mata
Business, Employment and Family-Based Immigration
Mr. Mata earned his Juris Doctor degree from Irvine College of Law, and is a seasoned immigration professional who has been in the field for 26 years. He handles employment-based visas, including EB-1, NIW, PERM (EB-2/EB-3), and ensures compliance with immigration laws. He plays a key role in the firm’s strategy and is fluent in Tagalog.
Meet the Experts
Which EB-1 Visa Category Fits You Best?
Answer all questions and one of our attorneys will get in touch with you!
Why Choose Shan Potts Law Firm?
Extraordinary Talent. Strategic Immigration.
We help exceptional individuals across industries secure U.S. residency through the EB-1 visa—with personalized strategies that highlight your achievements and support long-term success.
Whether you're a founder, researcher, executive, or artist, we know how to position your impact for EB-1 approval.
Proven Track Record
With a Glendale-based practice and over 3,000 clients served, our attorneys bring deep expertise in complex immigration cases — especially EB-1 visas for extraordinary professionals. We translate legal strategy into clear, actionable plans for high-achieving founders, executives, artists, and researchers ready to take the next step in the U.S.
Over 23 Years of Experience
A trusted legal strategist with decades of success in EB-1 petitions—helping extraordinary individuals secure permanent residency through both USCIS and consular processes.
We understand how to present your achievements with the clarity and credibility USCIS expects.
Fluent in Complex Law
Specializing in EB-1 petitions, RFE and NOID responses, consular complications, and appeals—built for professionals whose records need both nuance and impact.
We translate your career into a compelling case that speaks USCIS's language—clearly and confidently.