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⚠️ Informational only. Immigration rules change. Consult a licensed attorney for your specific situation.
How to Choose: H-1B vs EB-2
This is really a comparison between a nonimmigrant work visa (temporary) and an immigrant visa (permanent). H-1B provides US work authorization for 3–6 years (extendable under AC21) but is ultimately temporary. EB-2 is an employment-based green card — permanent US residence. The two are not alternatives for the same situation; most professionals start with H-1B, then pursue EB-2 (either through PERM labor certification with employer sponsorship, or via the National Interest Waiver self-petition). The key consideration is timeline: for Indian and Chinese nationals, EB-2 employer-sponsored backlogs can stretch decades. For other nationalities, EB-2 processing is 2–4 years. EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) allows self-petition without employer sponsorship if you can show your work has substantial merit and national importance under the Dhanasar standard — important for academics, researchers, and professionals with independent credentials.
H-1B
Visa TypeNonimmigrant
Duration3 yrs (extendable to 6)
SponsorshipRequired
Annual CapYes (85,000/yr lottery)
Green Card PathGreen card possible
Premium ProcessingYes ($2,965)
Wage RequirementPrevailing wage required
EB-2
Visa TypeImmigrant (GC)
DurationPermanent
SponsorshipRequired (or NIW)
Annual CapPer-country limits
Green Card PathIS the green card
Premium ProcessingNo
Wage RequirementPrevailing wage required
Approval Rate Comparison
H-1B Approval History
| Year | Petitions | Approval Rate |
|---|
| 2024 | 320,000 | 8500.0% |
| 2024 | 460,000 | 9300.0% |
| 2024 | 780,000 | 1090.0% |
EB-2 Approval History
| Year | Petitions | Approval Rate |
|---|
| 2024 | 55,000 | 8100.0% |
| 2024 | 92,341 | 5876.0% |
| 2024 | 38,000 | 7200.0% |
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Some data on this page may be outdated. We're working on refreshing it. For the latest official figures, check the
source links.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between H-1B and EB-2?
H-1B is Nonimmigrant while EB-2 is Immigrant (GC). H-1B requires required, while EB-2 requires required (or niw). Duration: H-1B lasts 3 yrs (extendable to 6) vs EB-2 lasting Permanent.
Can I switch from H-1B to EB-2?
Switching between visa types typically requires filing a new petition or change-of-status application with USCIS. Each situation is different. Consult an immigration attorney to evaluate your specific circumstances.
Which is better for a green card — H-1B or EB-2?
IS the green card is an immigrant visa that directly leads to a green card. Green card possible is a nonimmigrant path that may lead to a green card. Your best path depends on your qualifications, nationality, and employer situation.