Accelerate Your EB1 Green Card Approval with USCIS Premium Processing

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Picture of Shawn Sedaghat, Esq.

Shawn Sedaghat, Esq.

Navigating the green card process can be complex and time-consuming, but the USCIS premium processing service offers a faster path for employment-based petitions. This service is especially beneficial for individuals of extraordinary ability, distinguished scholars, and high-ranking corporate leaders. By utilizing premium processing, the wait time for approval can be significantly reduced from several months to just a few weeks. This guide provides insights into how premium processing can expedite your immigration journey toward achieving your American dream.

Key Takeaways

  • Fast-Track Your Application: The USCIS Premium Processing Service can expedite the green card application process for individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, and multinational executives, ensuring a quicker path to U.S. residency.
  • Ensure Proper Documentation: Properly filed documentation and swift responses to USCIS requests are crucial for a seamless premium processing experience.
  • Guaranteed Adjudication: USCIS guarantees the processing of your application within 15 calendar days for an additional fee of $2,500, providing predictability and peace of mind.
  • Potential Delays: Applicants might face delays due to USCIS operational backlogs or unforeseen administrative issues, highlighting the importance of preparedness and patience.
  • Consult an Attorney if Denied: If USCIS issues a denial, consult with an immigration attorney to explore alternative options or initiate an appeal.

Understanding Premium Processing for EB1 Green Cards

Premium Processing is a service offered by USCIS to expedite the processing of certain visa petitions, including employment-based green card applications (such as EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3) and nonimmigrant worker petitions (like H-1B, L-1, and O-1). For an additional fee, USCIS guarantees to process these applications within 15 calendar days from the receipt of Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, and the appropriate fee.

This service is valuable for employers and foreign nationals seeking quicker decisions to meet employment start dates or reduce the uncertainty of prolonged processing times. If USCIS cannot meet the 15-day deadline, they will refund the premium processing fee but continue to expedite the application.

EB1 Green Card Categories Eligible for Premium Processing

EB1 Green Card Categories Eligible for Premium Processing

Aliens of Extraordinary Ability (EB1-A)

This category is for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, recognized through sustained national or international acclaim. Applicants do not need a job offer and can petition for themselves.

Outstanding Professors and Researchers (EB1-B)

This category is for professors and researchers recognized internationally for outstanding achievements in their academic field. They must have at least three years of teaching or research experience and must be entering the U.S. to pursue tenure or tenure-track positions at a university or equivalent research institutions.

Multinational Managers or Executives (EB1-C)

This category is for managers or executives employed outside the U.S. by a firm or corporation for at least one year in the three years preceding the petition. They must seek to continue their service with the same employer or an affiliate/subsidiary in the U.S. in a managerial or executive capacity.

Premium Processing accelerates the review process for these EB1 Green Card applications, offering a significant advantage for eligible applicants seeking a quicker path to U.S. permanent residency.

Benefits of Opting for Premium Processing

Accelerated Processing Time

USCIS commits to processing applications within 15 calendar days, a significant reduction from the standard processing timeline, which can extend to several months.

Predictability and Planning

Applicants and employers gain predictability, allowing better planning for employment start dates and relocation arrangements.

Increased Peace of Mind

Premium Processing reduces the stress and uncertainty associated with prolonged application processing times by providing a clear and rapid timeline for adjudication.

Enhanced Communication

Premium Processing applications benefit from improved communication channels with USCIS, facilitating quicker resolution of issues if additional information is required.

Refund Guarantee

If USCIS fails to meet the 15-day timeframe, they will refund the Premium Processing fee while continuing to expedite the application.

Flexibility in Job Opportunities

Quicker processing times make applicants more attractive to potential employers, who may be hesitant about the uncertainty of standard visa processing times.

Timely Starts for Projects and Employment

Employers can ensure projects are staffed with necessary talent promptly, helping to avoid delays and maintain a competitive edge.

Step-by-Step Guide to Request EB1 Premium Processing

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Ensure your EB1 category (Aliens of Extraordinary Ability, Outstanding Professors and Researchers, or Multinational Managers or Executives) is eligible for Premium Processing by reviewing the latest USCIS guidelines.

Step 2: Complete Form I-907

Fill out Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, ensuring all information is accurate to avoid delays.

Step 3: Gather Supporting Documentation

Compile necessary supporting documents for your EB1 petition, including evidence of extraordinary ability, job offers (for certain categories), and other relevant documents.

Step 4: Pay the Premium Processing Fee

Pay the additional fee using a check, money order, or credit card via Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions.

Step 5: Submit Form I-907 and Your Petition

Submit Form I-907, your EB1 petition (Form I-140), and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address. If your petition is already filed, send Form I-907 and the fee to the service center processing your EB1 petition, including a copy of your Form I-140 receipt notice.

Step 6: Monitor Your Application

USCIS will issue a receipt notice for Form I-907, and the 15-day processing window begins. Check your application status online using the receipt number and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.

Step 7: Await Decision

USCIS will notify you of its decision within 15 calendar days. Respond quickly to any Requests for Evidence (RFE) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID) to maintain expedited processing.

Conclusion

Using USCIS Premium Processing can significantly expedite the EB1 Green Card application process, offering predictability and peace of mind. By ensuring proper documentation and being prepared to address any USCIS requests, applicants can enhance their chances of a smooth and swift approval process. Whether navigating consular processing or adjustment of status, premium processing can be a valuable tool in your journey toward U.S. permanent residency.

FAQs on EB1 Green Card Premium Processing

What is the difference between premium processing and regular processing?

Premium processing offers a guaranteed decision within 15 calendar days for an additional fee, while regular processing can take several months without a guaranteed timeline.

Can premium processing ensure approval of my EB1 Green Card application?

No, premium processing speeds up the review but does not guarantee approval. USCIS evaluates each petition based on its merits and supporting documents.

How do I request premium processing for my already submitted EB1 application?

Submit Form I-907 with the fee and a copy of your receipt notice for the original petition to the USCIS service center handling your application.

Is premium processing available for all EB1 categories?

Yes, it is available for Aliens of Extraordinary Ability, Outstanding Professors and Researchers, and Multinational Managers or Executives.

What happens if USCIS does not process my premium processing request within 15 days?

USCIS will refund the premium processing fee but continue to process your petition on an expedited basis.

Can premium processing affect my chances of receiving a Request for Evidence (RFE)?

Opting for premium processing does not affect the likelihood of receiving an RFE, but prompt and thorough responses are crucial to maintaining expedited processing.

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