Question 1

What is an EB-1A green card?

Accepted Answer

EB-1A is an employment-based green card category for people with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. It can be self-petitioned without a permanent job offer.

Question 2

Is meeting three criteria enough?

Accepted Answer

Not by itself. USCIS first checks whether the record satisfies at least three listed criteria or includes a major one-time achievement. It then considers the record as a whole to decide whether it shows sustained acclaim and standing near the top of the field.

Question 3

Is the Papers EB-1A assessment free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The current EB-1A evaluation is free. Full EB-1A case preparation is coming later.

Question 4

Do I need an employer or job offer for EB-1A?

Accepted Answer

No. EB-1A permits self-petitioning and does not require a permanent job offer, but the record must show that you intend to continue working in your area of extraordinary ability.

Question 5

How is EB-1A different from NIW?

Accepted Answer

Both can be self-petitioned, but they ask different questions. EB-1A focuses on sustained acclaim and standing near the top of a field. NIW begins with EB-2 eligibility and asks whether waiving the usual job-offer and labor-certification requirements would benefit the United States.

Question 6

How is EB-1A different from O-1A?

Accepted Answer

EB-1A is an immigrant category that can lead to permanent residence and can be self-petitioned. O-1A is temporary work status and generally requires a United States employer or agent to file. A strong record can be relevant to both, but the filing structure and legal standards are not identical.

Question 7

What if my record is not ready yet?

Accepted Answer

Use the assessment to identify which parts of the record are already useful, which claims need stronger support, and what work may take time. A planning result is not a promise that a future petition will qualify.

Question 8

Can my family apply with me?

Accepted Answer

A spouse and unmarried children under 21 may generally seek permanent residence as derivative beneficiaries if the principal applicant qualifies and visas are available. Individual circumstances can change the process, so confirm the filing plan with counsel.

Question 9

Can an attorney review the assessment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can take the organized report and underlying record to the attorney you choose. Counsel can verify eligibility, advise on strategy, and decide what additional evidence or filing work is required.

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