EB-1A Extraordinary Ability (Green Card) vs EB-2 National Interest Waiver

If you're choosing between these two US employment-based green cards, the core question is whether you can demonstrate extraordinary ability in your field or whether your work's national benefit to the US is clearer. Both skip the employer sponsorship requirement, but they have different credential and experience thresholds that make one a better fit depending on your professional profile.

1. 01

   Your education level

   Pick EB-1A

   Pick EB-1A if you have a bachelor's degree but no advanced degree yet.

   Pick EB-2 NIW

   Pick EB-2 NIW if you hold a master's degree or higher qualification.

2. 02

   Years of work experience

   Pick EB-1A

   Pick EB-1A if you have 7+ years of documented experience in your field.

   Pick EB-2 NIW

   Pick EB-2 NIW if you have 3+ years of experience but fewer than 7 years.

3. 03

   Evidentiary burden

   Pick EB-1A

   Pick EB-1A if you can prove top-tier national or international recognition.

   Pick EB-2 NIW

   Pick EB-2 NIW if demonstrating broad national interest in your work is easier.

4. 04

   Processing time tolerance

   Pick EB-1A

   Pick EB-1A if you want faster processing (8-24 months typical).

   Pick EB-2 NIW

   Pick EB-2 NIW if you can wait longer (12-36 months) for lower cost savings.