EB-1A: Extraordinary Ability

The EB-1A category is designed for individuals who have achieved extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a level of expertise that places them among the small percentage of individuals who have risen to the very top of their field. Applicants need to prove sustained national or international acclaim and provide evidence of recognition for their achievements.

Unlike many other employment-based immigration categories, the EB-1A does not require a specific job offer from a U.S. employer. Individuals may self-petition, provided they can demonstrate that they intend to continue working in their field of expertise in the United States.

To qualify for EB-1A, applicants must either provide evidence of a one-time major achievement (such as an internationally recognized award like a Pulitzer Prize, Olympic Medal, or Academy Award) or meet at least three of the following criteria:

• Receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in their field.
• Membership in associations in the field that demand outstanding achievements of their members, as judged by recognized national or international experts.
• Published material about the individual in professional or major trade publications, or other major media outlets.
• Participation, either individually or on a panel, as a judge of the work of others in the same or an allied field of expertise.
• Original scientific, scholarly, artistic, athletic, or business-related contributions of major significance in the field.
• Authorship of scholarly articles in professional or major trade publications or other major media.
• Display of the individual's work at artistic exhibitions or showcases.
• Performance in a leading or critical role for organizations or establishments that have a distinguished reputation.
• A high salary or other significantly high remuneration for services, in relation to others in the field.
• Commercial successes in the performing arts, as shown by box office receipts or record, cassette, compact disk, or video sales.

Our attorney is highly experienced in navigating the complexities of the EB-1A category. We assist clients by identifying the strongest available evidence, preparing detailed legal arguments, and assembling comprehensive petitions that highlight each applicant's extraordinary achievements.