What is an EB-1 visa? Why is it narrowing for Indians in FY 2026?

An EB-1 visa (Employment-Based First Preference) is a top-tier US permanent residency (Green Card) category. It is intended for individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors or researchers, and multinational managers or executives. EB-1 used to be the fastest Green Card route as it had little or zero backlog as it is not taken by the maximum -- because they don't qualify for it.