Question 1

Do I need a local attorney in Kirkland for EB-1?

Accepted Answer

Immigration law is federal, so you can work with any licensed U.S. immigration attorney regardless of where you are located. Watson Immigration Law is based in Seattle and serves clients throughout the Pacific Northwest including Kirkland, as well as clients across the United States and internationally. We offer virtual consultations and handle cases remotely.

Question 2

How long does EB-1 processing take for Kirkland applicants?

Accepted Answer

Processing times are the same regardless of where you are located — I-140: 4–6 months standard, 15 business days with premium. Adjustment of status: 8–24 months after I-140 approval (if priority date current). USCIS processes petitions at service centers, not by the applicant's location. For consular interviews (E-2, L-1), processing times depend on the specific U.S. consulate, typically 2–8 weeks.

Question 3

What is the difference between EB-1A and EB-1B?

Accepted Answer

EB-1A is for individuals with extraordinary ability in any field — sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. It requires no employer and no PERM. You must demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim meeting at least 3 of 10 USCIS criteria. EB-1B is specifically for outstanding professors and researchers and requires an offer of a tenured or tenure-track teaching position or a comparable research position, plus international recognition in the academic field.

Question 4

Can I self-petition for EB-1A?

Accepted Answer

Yes. EB-1A is unique in that it allows self-petition — you do not need a U.S. employer to sponsor you. You can file Form I-140 on your own behalf, demonstrating that you intend to continue working in your area of extraordinary ability. This makes EB-1A ideal for entrepreneurs, independent researchers, artists, and athletes who do not have a traditional employer.

Question 5

How does EB-1C relate to L-1A?

Accepted Answer

EB-1C is designed for multinational managers and executives — the same category as L-1A nonimmigrant status. If you have been in the U.S. on L-1A status and your company wants to sponsor you for a green card, EB-1C is typically the fastest pathway. It does not require PERM labor certification and uses the same qualifying relationship standards as L-1.

Question 6

What is the EB-1 priority date situation for Indian and Chinese nationals?

Accepted Answer

Unlike most other nationalities, Indian and Chinese nationals face significant backlogs in the EB-1 category due to per-country caps. The wait for Indian nationals especially can be several years even in EB-1. We help clients understand their current priority date situation and evaluate whether simultaneous EB-2 NIW filings make strategic sense.

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EB-1 in Kirkland

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