Introduction
The EB-1 green card is one of the fastest employment-based immigration options for highly accomplished individuals, such as professionals with extraordinary ability (EB-1A), outstanding professors or researchers (EB-1B), and multinational executives or managers (EB-1C).
But one of the first questions applicants ask is: “How long does it take to get an EB-1 green card in 2025?” The answer depends on your category, country of birth, and whether you file inside the U.S. (adjustment of status) or abroad (consular processing).
In this guide, we’ll break down the current EB-1 processing times in 2025, explain the key factors that affect your timeline, and show how our firm helps clients speed up the process.
EB-1 Green Card Categories and Processing
The EB-1 category is divided into three subgroups:
- EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability): For individuals in fields such as science, business, education, arts, or athletics who can show sustained acclaim and achievements.
- EB-1B (Outstanding Professors/Researchers): For professors and researchers recognized internationally with at least three years of experience.
- EB-1C (Multinational Executives/Managers): For executives and managers who have worked for a multinational company abroad and are transferring to a U.S. office.
Processing times for each can vary depending on USCIS workload and your country of chargeability (India or China often have longer waits).
EB-1 Processing Times in 2025
As of 2025, EB-1 processing times generally fall into these ranges:
- Form I-140 Immigrant Petition (EB-1A, EB-1B, EB-1C):
Standard processing: 6–10 months
Premium processing: 15 calendar days - Form I-485 Adjustment of Status (if filed in the U.S.):
8–14 months, depending on local USCIS field office - Consular Processing (if applying abroad):
6–12 months after I-140 approval, depending on the U.S. consulate
Overall, many EB-1 applicants can complete the process in 12–24 months if no complications arise. However, certain countries may face backlogs in the Visa Bulletin, which can extend wait times.
Factors That Affect EB-1 Processing Time
- Country of Birth: Applicants from India and China often face visa retrogression, which can add years of waiting due to high demand.
- Premium Processing: Using premium processing for Form I-140 can cut months off your timeline.
- Type of Filing: Adjustment of status vs. consular processing may impact your overall timeline.
- USCIS Workload: Shifts in government priorities, staffing, and policy changes can delay cases.
- RFE or NOID: If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE) or Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID), your case could be delayed several months.
How We Help Clients Speed Up EB-1 Cases
At our firm, we have successfully guided professionals through EB-1A, EB-1B, and EB-1C petitions with efficient strategies to reduce delays. We:
- Prepare thorough and strong petitions to minimize RFEs and denials.
- Monitor the Visa Bulletin and provide filing strategies to avoid long backlogs.
- Assist with premium processing filing and expedite requests in cases of urgent need.
With our experience, many of our clients have secured EB-1 approvals in under 12 months, even in complex cases.
Your Path to EB-1 Green Card Approval Starts with the Right Legal Team
The EB-1 green card processing time in 2025 depends on your category, filing type, and country of chargeability but with the right strategy, you can often secure approval faster than in other employment-based categories.
If you’re considering an EB-1 petition, don’t take chances with delays or denials. Contact us today at 305-515-0613 or email info@messersmithlaw.com to discuss your case. Let us help you build a strong EB-1 petition and move quickly toward your U.S. green card.