Self-petitioned employment-based pathways to lawful permanent residence (green card) in the U.S. allow individuals to apply for a green card without requiring an employer to sponsor them. Here are the primary self-petitioned employment-based pathways:   EB-1A: Extraordinary Ability  Description: The EB-1A visa category is for individuals with extraordinary ability in fields such as science, art, education, business, or athletics. Eligibility Criteria: The applicant must demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim and recognition in their field. No job offer or labor certification is required. Evidence might include awards, publications, or significant contributions to the field. Example: Nobel Prize winners, Olympic athletes, renowned researchers, and artists. EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) Description The EB-2 NIW is for individuals whose work is in the national interest of the United States. Typically, this visa is sought by people working in advanced fields such as sciences, engineering, education, or healthcare, and who can demonstrate that their work has significant merit and national importance. Eligibility Criteria: The applicant must prove that: The work has substantial intrinsic merit. The work benefits the U.S. economy, culture, education, or society in a significant way. It is in the national interest to waive the labor certification process (employer sponsorship). Examples: Researchers, entrepreneurs, or experts in fields that benefit the U.S. (e.g., energy, public health, technology). EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program Description: While the EB-5 is typically viewed as an investment-based visa rather than a self-petitioned employment-based visa, it allows individuals to self-petition for permanent residence by making a significant investment in a U.S. business that creates jobs for U.S. workers. Eligibility Criteria: The applicant must invest at least $1.05 million (or $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area) in a U.S. business that will create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers. Examples: Entrepreneurs who invest in U.S. businesses, including their own startups, and create employment opportunities.