EB-1 Visa Lawyer in Austin, TX

You've Earned Your Recognition. Now We'll Secure Your Residency

At Nanthaveth & Associates, we understand what it means to pursue the American dream through extraordinary achievement. As an Austin-based immigration law firm with over 20 years of experience, we have guided scientists, professors, executives, and individuals of exceptional ability through the complex EB-1 visa process, helping them secure permanent residency in the United States.

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Success Stories: Real Results for Extraordinary Professionals

  • K-1 Fiancé Visa

    From Application to “I Do”

    We helped Maria bring her fiancé from Mexico with a K-1 visa. Within a year, they were happily married and building a life together in Austin.

    Case
  • H-1B Visa

    Turning a Job Offer Into a U.S. Career

    When Raj was offered a tech role in Texas, our team secured his H-1B visa in weeks. Now he’s thriving in his dream job.

    Rings
  • Green Card

    A Family Reunited in Houston

    We guided the Nguyen family through consular processing and adjustment of status. In just over 12 months, parents and children were living together again in their new home.

    Family

View All Success Stories

Table of Contents

    What Is an EB-1 Visa? 

    The EB-1 visa is the first-preference employment-based immigrant visa, designed for individuals who are considered “priority workers” due to their exceptional ability and achievement. It is widely regarded as the most prestigious and efficient route to a green card for top-tier professionals.

    Here are the powerful advantages that make the EB-1 the premier choice:

    • No Labor Certification Required: Skip the lengthy PERM labor certification process required for EB-2 and EB-3 visas. This provides a direct path to permanent residency, saving you months or even years.
    • Faster Final Processing (No Visa Backlog): For most applicants, EB-1 priority dates are current, meaning there is no backlog. You can proceed to the final green card stages immediately after your petition is approved.
    • Control Over Your Future (EB-1A): Applicants for Extraordinary Ability can self-petition without an employer, giving you complete professional flexibility and control over your immigration journey.
    • Expedited Review Available: With Premium Processing, you can get a decision on your I-140 petition in just 15 calendar days, which is perfect when certainty and speed are essential.
    • Keep Your Family Together: Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can obtain green cards as derivatives of your petition.

    While these benefits are significant, the standards for an EB-1 petition are the most stringent in U.S. immigration law. At Nanthaveth & Associates, our Austin EB-1 visa attorneys are skilled in translating and explaining complex technical careers into the precise legal arguments USCIS demands. We don't just file paperwork. We help you build the compelling narrative of your success.

    Wondering If You Qualify for an EB-1 Visa?

    The line between 'exceptional' and 'extraordinary' is a legal one, defined by strict USCIS standards. Our experienced EB-1 lawyers will evaluate your unique professional profile against these criteria to determine your strongest path forward.

    EB-1A: Extraordinary Ability Green Card

    The EB-1A category is for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability in their field, supported by sustained national or international acclaim. You can self-petition for an EB-1A visa, as employer sponsorship is not required.

    You must meet at least 3 of these 10 criteria:

    • Receipt of nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence.
    • Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement as judged by recognized experts.
    • Published material about you in professional publications or major media.
    • Participation as a judge of the work of others in your field.
    • Original scientific, scholarly, artistic, athletic, or business contributions of major significance.
    • Authorship of scholarly articles in professional journals or major media.
    • Display of your work at artistic exhibitions or showcases.
    • Performance in a leading or critical role for distinguished organizations.
    • Command of a high salary or significantly high remuneration.
    • Commercial success in the performing arts.

    Ready to Self-Petition for Your EB-1A Visa?

    If you've achieved extraordinary success in your field, you can secure your U.S. green card without employer sponsorship. Contact us today to see if you qualify!

    EB-1B: Outstanding Professors and Researchers

    The EB-1B category recognizes professors and researchers whose groundbreaking work has earned international acclaim in their academic fields. This path requires a job offer from a U.S. university or qualifying research institution.

    You must meet at least 2 of these 6 criteria:

    • Major prizes or awards for outstanding achievement in your academic field
    • Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement
    • Published material in professional publications written by others about your work
    • Participation as a judge of others' work in your field or allied fields
    • Original scientific or scholarly research contributions
    • Authorship of scholarly books or articles in international circulation

    Additional requirements for obtaining an EB-1B visa:

    • At least 3 years of experience in teaching or research
    • Pursuing a tenure-track or comparable research position
    • Employer must have at least 3 full-time researchers

    Note: You need a permanent job offer from a U.S. employer, which could be a university or a qualifying private institution.

    Is Your Research Ready for Recognition?

    Transform your published work and international acclaim into permanent residency. Your EB-1B approval could be just months away.

    EB-1C: Multinational Managers and Executives

    The EB-1C provides a direct path to permanent residency for executives and managers of multinational companies. This category is ideal for high-level employees transferring to a U.S. branch, subsidiary, or affiliate.

    The petition must show that you:

    • Employed abroad by the company for at least 1 year in the past 3 years
    • Coming to the U.S. to continue service in an executive or managerial capacity
    • A U.S. company must have been doing business for at least 1 year
    • Must have a qualifying relationship between foreign and U.S. entities

    Executive Capacity includes:

    • Directing the management of the organization
    • Establishing goals and policies
    • Exercising wide latitude in discretionary decision-making
    • Receiving only general supervision from higher executives or the board

    Leading a Global Company? Lead Your Way to a Green Card.

    Skip the H-1B lottery and L-1 limitations. We'll turn your executive experience into permanent residency.

    How Can Nanthaveth & Associates Help with an EB-1 Visa Application

    Navigating the EB-1 visa process can feel overwhelming, but our EB-1 visa lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way:

    Step 1: Free Initial Consultation & Eligibility Assessment

    We begin with a comprehensive review of your achievements, career trajectory, and immigration goals. Our attorneys will assess which EB-1 category best fits your qualifications and provide an honest evaluation of your case strength.

    Step 2: Strategic Case Development & Evidence Collection

    We create a customized strategy tailored to your unique accomplishments. Our team provides a detailed evidence checklist and helps you gather the strongest possible documentation, from award certificates to recommendation letters from industry leaders.

    Step 3: Crafting Your Compelling Petition

    This is where our advanced knowledge and skill truly shine. Our EB visa attorneys don't just list your achievements. We weave them into a powerful narrative that demonstrates why you meet the extraordinary ability standard. Every word is carefully chosen to maximize impact.

    Step 4: Filing with USCIS (Form I-140)

    We meticulously prepare and file your I-140 Petition for Alien Worker, ensuring every document is formatted correctly and every requirement is met. We handle all communication with USCIS and keep you informed at every step.

    Step 5: Responding to Requests for Evidence (if needed)

    If USCIS requests additional evidence, our experienced team crafts comprehensive responses that address their concerns decisively. Our RFE response rate is exceptional because we anticipate and preempt common issues.

    Step 6: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing

    Once your I-140 is approved, we guide you through either adjustment of status (if you're in the U.S.) or consular processing (if abroad). We prepare you thoroughly for interviews and ensure smooth processing.

    Step 7: Green Card Issuance

    Congratulations! You and your eligible family members receive permanent resident status. But our relationship doesn't end here, as we remain available for any future immigration needs.

    Why Choose Nanthaveth & Associates as Your Austin EB-1 Visa Attorney?

    • Over 20 Years of Proven Immigration Law Experience

      Since 2008, our firm has dedicated itself exclusively to immigration law. Vi brings over two decades of hands-on experience navigating the complexities of USCIS. This depth of experience means we anticipate challenges before they arise and craft petition strategies that work.

    • Direct Access to Experienced Attorneys

      You will work directly with Vi Nanthaveth or one of our senior attorneys from your first consultation through final approval. Your case deserves and receives experienced, dedicated attention at every single step.

    • Bilingual Support You Can Trust

      Our team is fluent in Spanish, Lao, and Thai. We ensure every client feels heard, understood, and supported in the language that's most comfortable for them.

    • Free Consultation That Actually Helps

      Our free initial consultation isn’t just a sales pitch. We genuinely assess your eligibility, offer guidance, and help you determine whether the EB-1 visa is the right option for you or if another immigration path is more suitable.

    Want to Secure Your Green Card Faster?

    The EB-1 visa bypasses the lengthy labor certification process, but a single misstep or a weak petition can cause significant delays or denial. Schedule your free consultation now to start your application with experienced guidance.

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    Hear First-Hand from Our Clients

    Serving Extraordinary Talent in Austin and Beyond

    Though our office is located in Austin, our reach extends far beyond Texas. Immigration law is federal, allowing us to represent clients throughout the United States and across the globe.

    We serve areas including:

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    Frequently Asked Questions About EB-1 Visas

    How much do EB-1 attorney services cost in Austin?

    Our fees are transparent and competitive, based on case complexity. During your free consultation, we provide a detailed breakdown of all costs, including attorney fees and government filing fees. There are never any hidden fees or surprise charges.

    How long does the EB-1 visa process take?

    The EB-1 process typically takes 8 to 12 months from filing to green card. With premium processing, your I-140 petition receives a decision within 15 days. However, exact timelines depend on your specific situation and whether you're adjusting status or going through consular processing.

    What if I don't meet all 10 EB-1A criteria?

    You only need to meet 3 out of 10 criteria for EB-1A. However, the quality of evidence matters more than quantity. We've successfully obtained approvals for clients meeting just 3 criteria by presenting exceptionally strong evidence and compelling arguments. 

    Do I need to be in the U.S. to apply for an EB-1 visa?

    No, you can apply from anywhere in the world. If you're outside the U.S., you'll go through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate after your I-140 is approved. If you're already in the U.S. on another visa, you may be able to adjust status without leaving..

    Can I apply for an EB-1 visa without a job offer?

    Yes. If you qualify for EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability), you can self-petition without a job offer. EB-1B and EB-1C require a job offer from a U.S. employer.

    Is an EB-1 visa the same as the National Interest Waiver?

    No, they're different pathways. The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is part of the EB-2 category and has a lower bar, requiring "exceptional ability" rather than EB-1's "extraordinary ability" standard. While both allow self-petitioning without an employer, the EB-1 typically processes faster with no priority date backlogs, whereas EB-2 NIW applicants may face years-long waits depending on their country of birth.

    Translate Your Achievements into the U.S. Residence

    Your remarkable achievements have already set you apart. Now, let us help you secure your future in the United States. With over 20 years of immigration law experience, Nanthaveth & Associates is here to guide you through the complexities of the EB-1 visa process.

    Don't leave your future to chance. Take the first, definitive step today by scheduling your free, confidential consultation.

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