US sees surge in demand for Einstein visa as H-1B crunch continues

As the backlog for US employment-based visas continues to grow, applications for the EB‑1A, or so-called “Einstein visa,” have surged, according to a report by CBS News. The visa is offered to individuals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in fields such as science, arts, business, education, or athletics, and it allows applicants to self-petition for permanent residency without needing a US employer sponsor.

The rise in applications has coincided with a competitive and complex visa process, which has in turn fuelled a growing market for services that promise to enhance applicant credentials, sometimes involving questionable or fraudulent methods.

Backlogs and regulatory response

Federal limits for employment-based visas, including EB‑1A, contribute to long waits, particularly for applicants from India and China. The EB‑1A category allows self-petitioning for individuals with extraordinary ability, but demand far exceeds annual quotas, fuelling both competition and attempts to shortcut the system.


USCIS has increased screening and launched a new vetting center for immigration applications.

“USCIS is strengthening the integrity of all immigrant worker programs with increased screening and vetting in support of President Trump’s promise to protect American jobs and workers,” agency spokesperson Matthew Tragesser told CBS News.

Rising demand fuels a credential market

The EB‑1A visa has seen applications triple over the past four years, with nearly 7,500 filed between April and June 2025, up from 2,500 in late 2021, according to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) data, as reported by CBS News. At the same time, approval rates have fallen from 67% to around 50%, reflecting tighter scrutiny amid high demand.

This surge has also created a market for resume-boosting services. Some applicants, especially in science and technology, are turning to consultants who offer to ghostwrite papers, inflate citations, or provide awards for a fee. Prices for these services can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

USCIS officials have confirmed that some EB‑1A applicants submit purchased or fraudulent credentials. “If you have money, then you have a way to buy your evidence and fabricate those things,” said a former USCIS official to CBS News.

Those caught may have applications denied or risk being barred from reapplying.