U.S. Green Card Strategy for International Founders
The Green Card paths that work for founders depend on several factors, including the structure of the company they’re trying to build in the U.S., and the specific items they have that document their achievements.
At Manifest, our attorneys have helped founders and entrepreneurs explore their various Green Card options, from the EB-1A to the EB-2 NIW.
Flat fees with flexible payment plans.
Ex-USCIS officer review available on every plan as an add on
Live case tracking through the Manifest portal.
Built for founders — we know how to translate fundraises, traction, and press coverage into evidence.
*Representative image - not actual Manifest lawyer or client
*Representative image - not actual Manifest lawyer or client
*Representative image — Not actual Manifest lawyer or client
What Green Card options does an international founder typically have?
Most founders cannot use the standard employer-sponsored EB-2 PERM path, because they are running the company that would be sponsoring them. That leaves the two self-petition routes: the EB-1A and the EB-2 NIW. Both Green Card categories let you apply without a sponsor, can be filed from inside the U.S. or from abroad.
Common starting points for founders
You are on an O-1 and ready to lock in a permanent path.
You are on an E-2 and want a route that is not tied to keeping the business alive forever.
You are outside the U.S. with a funded company and ready to relocate permanently.
*Representative image
Not actual Manifest lawyer or client
Common starting points for founders
You are on an O-1 and ready to lock in a permanent path.
You are on an E-2 and want a route that is not tied to keeping the business alive forever.
You are outside the U.S. with a funded company and ready to relocate permanently.
What Green Card options does an international founder typically have?
Most founders cannot use the standard employer-sponsored EB-2 PERM path, because they are running the company that would be sponsoring them. That leaves the two self-petition routes: the EB-1A and the EB-2 NIW. Both Green Card categories let you apply without a sponsor, can be filed from inside the U.S. or from abroad.
*Representative image
Not actual Manifest lawyer or client
Common starting points for founders
You are on an O-1 and ready to lock in a permanent path.
You are on an E-2 and want a route that is not tied to keeping the business alive forever.
You are outside the U.S. with a funded company and ready to relocate permanently.
What Green Card options does an international founder typically have?
Most founders cannot use the standard employer-sponsored EB-2 PERM path, because they are running the company that would be sponsoring them. That leaves the two self-petition routes: the EB-1A and the EB-2 NIW. Both Green Card categories let you apply without a sponsor, can be filed from inside the U.S. or from abroad.
Your Green Card options
Your Green Card options
Your Green Card options
EB-1A — Extraordinary Ability, Self-Petition
For founders with strong public proof of what they have built. The EB-1A is the best fit when you have major press, tier-one investors, prior exits, accelerator wins, named awards, or speaking and judging credentials. You self-petition, so no employer is required. The priority date is current for most countries.
EB-1A — Extraordinary Ability, Self-Petition
For founders with strong public proof of what they have built. The EB-1A is the best fit when you have major press, tier-one investors, prior exits, accelerator wins, named awards, or speaking and judging credentials. You self-petition, so no employer is required. The priority date is current for most countries.
Outstanding Professor or Researcher
EB-1B
For founders with strong public proof of what they have built. The EB-1A is the best fit when you have major press, tier-one investors, prior exits, accelerator wins, named awards, or speaking and judging credentials. You self-petition, so no employer is required. The priority date is current for most countries.
EB-2 NIW — National Interest Waiver, Self-Petition
For founders whose work clearly benefits the U.S., even without top-tier press. The NIW works best when your work falls into a recognized national interest area — defense, climate, AI safety, biotech, critical infrastructure, public health, or advanced manufacturing. You also need proof that you are well-positioned to advance it.
EB-2 NIW — National Interest Waiver, Self-Petition
For founders whose work clearly benefits the U.S., even without top-tier press. The NIW works best when your work falls into a recognized national interest area — defense, climate, AI safety, biotech, critical infrastructure, public health, or advanced manufacturing. You also need proof that you are well-positioned to advance it.
Outstanding Professor or Researcher
EB-1B
For founders whose work clearly benefits the U.S., even without top-tier press. The NIW works best when your work falls into a recognized national interest area — defense, climate, AI safety, biotech, critical infrastructure, public health, or advanced manufacturing. You also need proof that you are well-positioned to advance it.
Why clients trust Manifest's immigration lawyers
Here is what our clients get on every Manifest case.
Why clients trust Manifest's immigration lawyers
Here is what our clients get on every Manifest case.
Why clients trust Manifest's immigration lawyers
Here is what our clients get on every Manifest case.
01
Available as an add-on for Silver and Gold plans, and automatically included in the Platinum plan. An attorney with USCIS adjudication experience reviews your petition before it leaves our office.
Ex-USCIS officer review
02
One price, quoted upfront on your strategy call. We do not bill by the hour. Payment plans are available.
Flat fees, no surprises
03
The Manifest portal shows every status update, every document, and your next step in real time.
Live case tracking
04
We plan around tenure clocks, semester start dates, conference cycles, and grant deadlines. The attorney reviewing your file will already understand what a strong h-index, an NSF CAREER award, or an editorial board seat actually means for your case.
Built around your calendar
05
If conditions are met and your visa isn't approved, you get a refund of all or part of your legal fees.
Money back guarantee
01
Available as an add-on for Silver and Gold plans, and automatically included in the Platinum plan. An attorney with USCIS adjudication experience reviews your petition before it leaves our office.
Ex-USCIS officer review
02
One price, quoted upfront on your strategy call. We do not bill by the hour. Payment plans are available.
Flat fees, no surprises
03
The Manifest portal shows every status update, every document, and your next step in real time.
Live case tracking
04
We plan around tenure clocks, semester start dates, conference cycles, and grant deadlines. The attorney reviewing your file will already understand what a strong h-index, an NSF CAREER award, or an editorial board seat actually means for your case.
Built around your calendar
05
If conditions are met and your visa isn't approved, you get a refund of all or part of your legal fees.
Money back guarantee
01
Available as an add-on for Silver and Gold plans, and automatically included in the Platinum plan. An attorney with USCIS adjudication experience reviews your petition before it leaves our office.
Ex-USCIS officer review
02
One price, quoted upfront on your strategy call. We do not bill by the hour. Payment plans are available.
Flat fees, no surprises
03
The Manifest portal shows every status update, every document, and your next step in real time.
Live case tracking
04
We have represented founders, international founders, across the country.
Built for founders
05
If conditions are met and your visa isn't approved, you get a refund of all or part of your legal fees.
Money back guarantee*
*Read terms and conditions here. Only available for select plans.
*Read terms and conditions here. Only available for select plans.
*Read terms and conditions here. Only available for select plans.
Client stories
Very professional, Simon and Dan responded to my clarifications with satisfaction. prepared my case with detailed documentation and got my approval from USCIS. Highly recommended for individuals looking for GC process under employment-based category.
Gurinder Singh
I have worked with Dan and Simon directly, and my experience has been like no other. It feels like I'm talking with actual people who care about my case. Any questions I had, they were happy to assist me with in a very short time and make sure everything was clear before moving on to the next thing. I will definitely be working with them again in the future.
Sandra Rocha
I had an amazing experience with Manifest Law from the first intake interview, through a fast and professional process of working on the file, to a straightforward approval of my case. Catlea Bobis is a superstar attorney, and I recommend everyone considering trusting your case to professional support like I had with Catlea and the entire team at Manifest Law.
Irina Batukhtina
*Prior results do not guarantee future outcomes.
*Prior results do not guarantee future outcomes.
/FAQS
/FAQS
Common questions founders ask about Green Card options
Common questions founders ask about Green Card options
Should I file an EB-1A or an EB-2 NIW?
Should I file an EB-1A or an EB-2 NIW?
Should I file an EB-1A or an EB-2 NIW?
Can I switch from EB-2 NIW to EB-1A later?
Can I switch from EB-2 NIW to EB-1A later?
Can I switch from EB-2 NIW to EB-1A later?
Which option leads to a Green Card fastest?
Which option leads to a Green Card fastest?
Which option leads to a Green Card fastest?
Which option gives me the most flexibility?
Which option gives me the most flexibility?
Which option gives me the most flexibility?
Do I need an employer sponsor for any of these?
Do I need an employer sponsor for any of these?
Do I need an employer sponsor for any of these?
What if I do not qualify for the EB-1A yet?
What if I do not qualify for the EB-1A yet?
What if I do not qualify for the EB-1A yet?
/Let’s Begin
Your Path Forward
Starts Here.
A 30-minute strategy call with a Manifest attorney can map your full Green Card strategy, including which path fits, what evidence you will need, and a realistic timeline.
Your Path Forward
Starts Here.
A 30-minute strategy call with a Manifest attorney can map your full Green Card strategy, including which path fits, what evidence you will need, and a realistic timeline.
Your Path Forward
Starts Here.
A 30-minute strategy call with a Manifest attorney can map your full Green Card strategy, including which path fits, what evidence you will need, and a realistic timeline.
Other Services
+1 212 246 6212
(please text us)
press@manifestlaw.com
(For press inquiries and official
media requests)
help@manifestlaw.com
(For potential clients with consultation and visa inquiries)
support@manifestlaw.com
(For existing clients with case, billing, and portal inquiries)
compliance@manifestlaw.com
(for any complaints or concerns)
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Attorney Advertising: This website is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and is no substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Only an attorney can provide you with legal advice, and only after considering your specific facts and circumstances. You should not act on any information on this website without first seeking the advice of an attorney. Manifest Law is an association of lawyers and legal entities that have agreed to do business under a common name, which includes Manifest Legal Services LLC, Manifest Legal Solutions LLC and Manifest Law PLLC. Manifest Legal Services LLC is an Arizona ABS regulated by the Supreme Court of Arizona. The use of the name “Manifest Law” does not imply that all lawyers or legal entities within the Manifest Law family are part of a single partnership or that they are responsible for the acts or omissions of each other. Any specific attorney-client engagement, the scope of any such attorney-client relationship, and the legal responsibility for any such engagement will be set forth in the retainer agreement entered into between the client and the relevant Manifest Law attorney(s). All legal services are conducted by licensed immigration professionals. This website is regulated by the Arizona Rules of Professional Conduct.
2026 Copyright held by Manifest Legal Tech, Inc.
Other Services
+1 212 246 6212
(please text us)
press@manifestlaw.com
(For press inquiries and official
media requests)
help@manifestlaw.com
(for prospective clients and general inquiries)
support@manifestlaw.com
(For existing clients with case, billing, and portal inquiries)
compliance@manifestlaw.com
(for any complaints or concerns)
Manifest Law
2550 W. Union Hills Dr
Suite 350
Phoenix AZ 85027
Manifest Tech
902 Broadway
8th Floor
New York NY 10010
Attorney Advertising: This website is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and is no substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Only an attorney can provide you with legal advice, and only after considering your specific facts and circumstances. You should not act on any information on this website without first seeking the advice of an attorney. Manifest Law is an association of lawyers and legal entities that have agreed to do business under a common name, which includes Manifest Legal Services LLC, Manifest Legal Solutions LLC and Manifest Law PLLC. Manifest Legal Services LLC is an Arizona ABS regulated by the Supreme Court of Arizona. The use of the name “Manifest Law” does not imply that all lawyers or legal entities within the Manifest Law family are part of a single partnership or that they are responsible for the acts or omissions of each other. Any specific attorney-client engagement, the scope of any such attorney-client relationship, and the legal responsibility for any such engagement will be set forth in the retainer agreement entered into between the client and the relevant Manifest Law attorney(s). All legal services are conducted by licensed immigration professionals. This website is regulated by the Arizona Rules of Professional Conduct.
2026 Copyright held by Manifest Legal Tech, Inc.
Other Services
+1 212 246 6212
(please text us)
press@manifestlaw.com
(For press inquiries and official
media requests)
help@manifestlaw.com
(For potential clients with consultation and visa inquiries)
support@manifestlaw.com
(For existing clients with case, billing, and portal inquiries)
compliance@manifestlaw.com
(for any complaints or concerns)
Manifest Tech
902 Broadway
8th Floor
New York NY 10010
Manifest Law
2550 W. Union Hills Dr
Suite 350
Phoenix AZ 85027
Attorney Advertising: This website is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and is no substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Only an attorney can provide you with legal advice, and only after considering your specific facts and circumstances. You should not act on any information on this website without first seeking the advice of an attorney. Manifest Law is an association of lawyers and legal entities that have agreed to do business under a common name, which includes Manifest Legal Services LLC, Manifest Legal Solutions LLC and Manifest Law PLLC. Manifest Legal Services LLC is an Arizona ABS regulated by the Supreme Court of Arizona. The use of the name “Manifest Law” does not imply that all lawyers or legal entities within the Manifest Law family are part of a single partnership or that they are responsible for the acts or omissions of each other. Any specific attorney-client engagement, the scope of any such attorney-client relationship, and the legal responsibility for any such engagement will be set forth in the retainer agreement entered into between the client and the relevant Manifest Law attorney(s). All legal services are conducted by licensed immigration professionals. This website is regulated by the Arizona Rules of Professional Conduct.
2026 Copyright held by Manifest Legal Tech, Inc.
+1 212 246 6212
(please text us)
press@manifestlaw.com
(For press inquiries and official
media requests)
help@manifestlaw.com
(For potential clients with consultation and visa inquiries)
support@manifestlaw.com
(For existing clients with case, billing, and portal inquiries)
compliance@manifestlaw.com
(for any complaints or concerns)
Manifest Tech
902 Broadway
8th Floor
New York NY 10010
Manifest Law
2550 W. Union Hills Dr
Suite 350
Phoenix AZ 85027
Attorney Advertising: This website is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and is no substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Only an attorney can provide you with legal advice, and only after considering your specific facts and circumstances. You should not act on any information on this website without first seeking the advice of an attorney. Manifest Law is an association of lawyers and legal entities that have agreed to do business under a common name, which includes Manifest Legal Services LLC, Manifest Legal Solutions LLC and Manifest Law PLLC. Manifest Legal Services LLC is an Arizona ABS regulated by the Supreme Court of Arizona. The use of the name “Manifest Law” does not imply that all lawyers or legal entities within the Manifest Law family are part of a single partnership or that they are responsible for the acts or omissions of each other. Any specific attorney-client engagement, the scope of any such attorney-client relationship, and the legal responsibility for any such engagement will be set forth in the retainer agreement entered into between the client and the relevant Manifest Law attorney(s). All legal services are conducted by licensed immigration professionals. This website is regulated by the Arizona Rules of Professional Conduct.
2026 Copyright held by Manifest Legal Tech, Inc.
+1 212 246 6212
(please text us)
press@manifestlaw.com
(For press inquiries and official
media requests)
help@manifestlaw.com
(For potential clients with consultation and visa inquiries)
support@manifestlaw.com
(For existing clients with case, billing, and portal inquiries)
compliance@manifestlaw.com
(for any complaints or concerns)
Manifest Tech
902 Broadway
8th Floor
New York NY 10010
Manifest Law
2550 W. Union Hills Dr
Suite 350
Phoenix AZ 85027
Attorney Advertising: This website is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and is no substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Only an attorney can provide you with legal advice, and only after considering your specific facts and circumstances. You should not act on any information on this website without first seeking the advice of an attorney. Manifest Law is an association of lawyers and legal entities that have agreed to do business under a common name, which includes Manifest Legal Services LLC, Manifest Legal Solutions LLC and Manifest Law PLLC. Manifest Legal Services LLC is an Arizona ABS regulated by the Supreme Court of Arizona. The use of the name “Manifest Law” does not imply that all lawyers or legal entities within the Manifest Law family are part of a single partnership or that they are responsible for the acts or omissions of each other. Any specific attorney-client engagement, the scope of any such attorney-client relationship, and the legal responsibility for any such engagement will be set forth in the retainer agreement entered into between the client and the relevant Manifest Law attorney(s). All legal services are conducted by licensed immigration professionals. This website is regulated by the Arizona Rules of Professional Conduct.
2026 Copyright held by Manifest Legal Tech, Inc.