EB-1A Green Cards in Brooklyn, NY: A Complete Guide for Extraordinary Ability Applicants
For highly accomplished professionals, researchers, artists, and entrepreneurs living in Brooklyn, NY, EB-1A Green Cards in Brooklyn offer a unique path to permanent residency in the United States. This category is designed for individuals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in their field through sustained national or international recognition.
Unlike most employment-based visas, the EB-1A allows applicants to self-petition, meaning there is no requirement for an employer sponsor. This makes the EB-1A especially appealing for independent professionals, business owners, and innovators. In this guide, Regev Law, Immigration Attorney in Brooklyn, NY, explains the qualifications, documentation, and process for securing EB-1A Green Cards in Brooklyn with the support of an experienced immigration lawyer.
Who Qualifies for the EB-1A Green Card?
Defining “Extraordinary Ability”
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) defines extraordinary ability as being among the small percentage who have risen to the top of their field [1]. Applicants must prove recognition through awards, publications, memberships, or other achievements.
Fields Commonly Approved
Applicants often come from fields such as:
Medical research and healthcare innovation
Science and technology
Arts, film, or music
Business leadership and entrepreneurship
Education and policy development
Self-Petition Advantage
Unlike the EB-2 NIW, which requires showing a benefit to the national interest, the EB-1A stands on proof of exceptional achievements. Applicants can file without employer sponsorship, which is highly valuable for independent professionals pursuing EB-1A Green Cards in Brooklyn, NY.
Common Professions That Qualify in Brooklyn, NY
Medical professionals addressing public health needs [2]
Researchers working in emerging technologies
Entrepreneurs developing solutions that create U.S. jobs
Educators and policy experts influencing national programs
Building a Strong EB-1A Application
Key Documentation
Applicants seeking EB-1A Green Cards in Brooklyn should be prepared to provide:
Evidence of major awards or nominations (e.g., Nobel Prize, Pulitzer, industry-specific recognition)
Memberships in organizations that require exceptional achievements
Published material about the applicant’s work in professional or major media outlets
Original contributions with significant impact on the field
Authorship of scholarly articles
Participation as a judge of others in the field
Letters of Recommendation
One of the most critical components of an EB-1A petition is strong expert recommendation letters. These letters help prove that the applicant’s accomplishments are recognized by respected authorities.
Role of Legal Strategy
An attorney can ensure that evidence is framed persuasively and connected clearly to the EB-1A criteria. A scattered or poorly presented case often results in delays or denials, which is why applicants for EB-1A Green Cards in Brooklyn benefit from experienced legal guidance.
Common Challenges Applicants Face
Meeting High Standards
The EB-1A has one of the strictest eligibility standards of all immigration categories. Many applicants for EB-1A Green Cards in Brooklyn struggle to show that their recognition is not only local but also national or international.
Documentation Gaps
Even highly accomplished individuals may not have all the necessary evidence. Applicants in Brooklyn often need help gathering publications, media features, or detailed reference letters.
Why Work With a Brooklyn Immigration Lawyer?
Tailored Legal Support
Every EB-1A applicant’s background is unique. An attorney can tailor evidence presentation so that it highlights the most persuasive achievements, strengthening petitions for EB-1A Green Cards in Brooklyn.
Local Representation with National Expertise
Working with a Brooklyn-based immigration lawyer provides local accessibility and personal guidance. Firms like Regev Law – Immigration Attorney in Brooklyn, NY combine national immigration expertise with the convenience of a trusted local presence.
Higher Approval Success
By carefully preparing the case, anticipating USCIS challenges, and organizing documentation, an immigration lawyer significantly improves the applicant’s chances of approval for EB-1A Green Cards in Brooklyn.
The EB-1A Application Process
Case Evaluation – Reviewing eligibility, achievements, and field-specific recognition.
Evidence Collection – Gathering awards, publications, memberships, and expert recommendations.
Petition Filing – Submitting Form I-140 with USCIS, including all supporting evidence.
Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing – Completing permanent residency steps after approval.
How Long Does the EB-1A Process Take in Brooklyn, NY?
USCIS Processing Times
The timeline for EB-1A Green Cards in Brooklyn can vary depending on the applicant’s case and USCIS workload. On average, petitions take 8 to 14 months to process [1]. However, some applicants may experience longer wait times if additional evidence is requested or if their case is particularly complex.
Premium Processing Option
USCIS offers Premium Processing for EB-1A petitions, which can shorten the initial review period to 15 calendar days. While this speeds up the petition stage, it does not guarantee approval, and applicants must still provide thorough and persuasive evidence.
Adjustment of Status
For those already living in Brooklyn, NY, the adjustment of status stage (Form I-485) may add additional months before final approval of EB-1A Green Cards in Brooklyn is granted. Careful preparation at every step is essential to avoid unnecessary delays.
How Regev Law Supports EB-1A Applicants in Brooklyn, NY
Personalized Legal Guidance
Each EB-1A applicant has a unique background. At Regev Law – Immigration Attorney in Brooklyn, NY, our team tailors every case to highlight the client’s most persuasive achievements and recognition.
Strong Evidence Development
We help clients organize documentation, draft expert recommendation letters, and present accomplishments in a way that aligns with USCIS criteria. Even highly qualified applicants often need legal strategy to ensure their strengths are showcased effectively.
Higher Approval Confidence
By anticipating USCIS challenges and structuring a complete petition from the start, Regev Law increases clients’ chances of success. Our goal is to make the application process less overwhelming and provide the clarity and confidence needed for approval.
FAQs About EB-1A Green Cards in Brooklyn, NY
Who qualifies for an EB-1A Green Card in Brooklyn, NY?
Applicants with extraordinary ability proven through national or international recognition in their field [1].
How long does the EB-1A process take?
On average, EB-1A petitions take 8 to 14 months depending on USCIS processing times and case complexity [1].
Do I need an employer to apply for EB-1A?
No. The EB-1A allows applicants to self-petition without employer sponsorship.
What is the difference between EB-1A and EB-2 NIW?
The EB-1A focuses solely on extraordinary ability, while EB-2 NIW applicants must show national interest benefits.
Can my family apply with me?
Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 may apply as dependents for permanent residency [1].
Conclusion: Your Path to Residency in Brooklyn, NY
The EB-1A Green Card is one of the most powerful ways for extraordinary ability applicants in Brooklyn, NY to achieve permanent residency. It offers freedom from employer sponsorship, greater flexibility in career choices, and long-term security for families who want to live and work in the United States.
However, the EB-1A process is also demanding. Applicants must provide extensive documentation and frame their achievements in a way that meets strict USCIS criteria. Many strong candidates struggle not because they lack accomplishments, but because their petitions are not presented clearly or persuasively.
That is where Regev Law – Immigration Attorney in Brooklyn, NY can help. Our team works closely with clients to evaluate eligibility, prepare strong evidence, and build petitions that highlight true extraordinary ability. By combining national immigration expertise with trusted local representation, we provide guidance that improves your chances of approval.
Ready to see if you qualify? Request your Free EB-1A & EB-2 NIW Assessment with Regev Law today.
Reference
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (2025). EB-1A Extraordinary Ability Green Card. Retrieved from https://www.uscis.gov