EB-1A Program
The EB-1A category, or "Extraordinary Ability" visa, requires applicants to demonstrate their exceptional qualifications in their field. To do so, they must provide evidence that meets at least three of the following nine criteria
Extraordinary Ability
Major Awards
Definition: Applicants can provide evidence of receiving a major internationally recognized award, such as a Nobel Prize, an Academy Award (Oscar), a Grammy, or a similar accolade.
Importance: This is one of the strongest pieces of evidence, as it indicates that the individual is recognized at a global level for exceptional achievements in their field.
Membership in Associations
Definition: Membership in professional associations that require outstanding achievements for admission, such as industry-related groups or honors societies.
Requirements: This typically means that the associations have rigorous standards or gatekeeping processes to ensure that only those with extraordinary abilities can join.
Documentation: Include proof of membership and details about the association’s requirements.
Published Material
Definition: Evidence of published articles, reviews, or reports about the individual in professional or major trade publications or other major media sources.
Examples: This could include newspaper articles, journal publications, or online features that discuss the individual’s work or contributions to their field.
Documentation: Copies of the articles as well as citations showing the reach and impact of the publications are crucial.
Serving as a Judge
Definition: Evidence of having served as a judge of the work of others in the same or related field.
Context: This could be participation in conferences, peer reviewing grant proposals, judging competitions, or any role where the applicant evaluated the work of peers.
Documentation: Letters from organizations confirming the judgment role and details of the work evaluated.
Original Contributions
Definition: Evidence of the individual’s original contributions of major significance to their field. This includes innovations, research developments, or groundbreaking work that has substantially impacted the industry.
Examples: Patents, theories, inventions, or new methodologies that are widely recognized and adopted.
Documentation: Testimonials, citations from other professionals acknowledging the contributions, and evidence of how these contributions are utilized in the field.
Authorship of Scholarly Articles
Definition: Evidence of authorship of scholarly or professional articles published in major journals or other significant media.
Importance: Publications that show the individual's expertise and contributions to their field enhance their professional credibility.
Documentation: Copies of published articles, lists of articles with impact factors (if applicable), and citations of the author's work by other scholars.
High Salary
Definition: Evidence of commanding a high salary or remuneration compared to others in the field.
Criteria: The salary must be in the top percentile when compared to peers in the same geographic area or industry.
Documentation: Tax returns, employment contracts, or letters from employers verifying salary ratings and comparisons.
Commercial Success in Performing Arts
Definition: Evidence of commercial success in the performing arts, including ticket sales, album sales, or other revenue-generating activities.
Importance: This shows that the individual has not only artistic talent but also significant public interest and marketability.
Documentation: Sales data, reviews, and articles highlighting the individual’s success and popularity within the industry.
Significant Roles
Definition: Evidence of having played a leading or critical role in organizations or activities with a recognized prestige.
Context: This could include leadership positions, influential projects, or pivotal contributions in significant organizations.
Documentation: Letters from employers, organizational charts, or documentation that specifies the individual’s role and its impact on the organization.
