EB-1A visa

The EB-1A visa provides a unique opportunity for individuals with extraordinary abilities to obtain permanent residency (i.e., green card) in the United States. Unlike many other visa categories, the EB-1A does not require a job offer or labor certification and allows applicants to self-petition and seek residency based on their extraordinary achievements and contributions to their field.

To qualify for an EB-1A visa, applicants must provide evidence of either:

• A one-time achievement, such as a Pulitzer Prize, Oscar, or Olympic Medal.

OR

• At least three of the following ten criteria that demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim:
• Prizes or Awards: Evidence of receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in your field.
• Memberships: Documentation of membership in associations that require outstanding achievement for their members.
• Press: Evidence of published material about the applicant in professional or major trade publications or other major media outlets.
• Judging: Proof that the applicant has been invited to judge the work of others, either individually or as part of a panel.
• Contributions: Evidence of original contributions of major significance in the applicant’s field.
• Authorship: Documentation of scholarly articles written by the applicant in professional or major trade publications or other major media.
• Art Exhibitions or Showcases: Evidence that the applicant’s work has been displayed at artistic exhibitions or showcases.
• Leading or Critical Role: Proof of a leading or critical role in distinguished organizations within the applicant’s field.
• High Salary: Evidence that the applicant has commanded a high salary or other significantly high remuneration in relation to others in the field.
• Commercial Successes: Documentation of commercial successes in the performing arts, such as box office receipts or sales records.