Accelerate Your EB-2 To EB-1 Part 3

Case 3: An Indian Biochemist Who Qualified Directly for EB 1B

Dr. Priya Singh, a 38 year old biochemist from Delhi, came to the United States in 2014 on an F 1 visa to complete a PhD in molecular biology at UC Berkeley. She transitioned into a postdoctoral role through OPT and a STEM extension, working on cancer drug development.

She later obtained an H 1B in 2021 at a pharmaceutical research lab where her work on gene editing technology gained acclaim. Her employer filed EB 2, establishing a priority date of April 2021, but EB 2 India showed more than a decade of backlog.

Priya’s record showed strong EB 1B potential. She held NIH funded research experience, international conference invitations, peer reviewed publications and more than 50 citations. After consulting with our office in 2024, we prepared an EB 1B petition with extensive supporting evidence.

Her EB 1B was approved rapidly. Because her EB 2 priority date of April 2021 was earlier than the EB 1 India cutoff, we ported the date into EB 1, allowing her to file for adjustment immediately. Her green card was approved in late 2025.

Priya now leads her own research team and continues to develop advanced therapeutic technologies.

Strategies to Overcome Retrogression

Retrogression is a challenge but not a dead end. Key steps include:

1. Know your priority date and check the Visa Bulletin monthly.
2. Explore EB 1 options early. EB 1A and EB 1B remove the need for PERM and often shorten the wait.
3. Document achievements continually, including publications, patents, peer review work, awards and high salary.
4. Use priority date porting to shift from EB 2 or EB 3 to EB 1.
5. Maintain lawful status through H 1B extensions, AC21 provisions and timely filings.
6. Work with experienced counsel to structure the strongest possible case.

Your Next Step

The Law Offices of Chris M. Ingram has helped many clients bypass decade long waits by building strong EB 1 petitions and advancing priority dates. Visit www.breakthroughusa.com to schedule a consultation.

Final Encouragement

As Attorney Chris M. Ingram often reminds clients:
 “Every delay is an opportunity in disguise. Learn the system, use strategy and turn your American dream into reality.”