EB-1 categories
EB-1 includes extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, and certain multinational executives and managers. Those are separate routes. This page focuses on extraordinary ability rather than treating the evidence and sponsorship requirements as interchangeable.
Evidence of extraordinary ability
Extraordinary-ability cases require evidence of the applicable level of recognition and achievement. A major qualifying award or the relevant combination of regulatory evidence may form part of the case. Meeting an initial evidence count does not end the assessment: the record must support the overall standard.
Awards, published material, original contributions and leading or critical roles may be relevant, depending on the field and evidence. Comparable evidence is not an extra free-standing criterion to be counted in every case.
Preparing the application
This category may permit self-petitioning without a job offer, but the applicant’s proposed continued work in the field must still be considered. Our firm can assess the professional history, identify gaps in the record and organize the evidence relevant to the requirements.
A chronology of the applicant’s work and its impact, supported by independent records, can assist in preparing the case. The evidence should explain the significance of the achievements; unsupported praise or a lengthy résumé alone is insufficient.
PREPARING FOR A CONSULTATION
Information to prepare
A brief summary is sufficient for an initial inquiry. Detailed or sensitive records should be provided through the appropriate consultation process.
- Professional history and proposed U.S. work
- Awards and independent coverage
- Evidence of contributions and their impact
- Records supporting leadership, judging or other relevant criteria
Common questions
Are all EB-1 cases self-petitioned?
No. The extraordinary-ability route differs from the professor/researcher and multinational-manager categories.
Is meeting three evidence categories enough for approval?
No. The full record must also establish the required level of extraordinary ability.
Official sources and further reading
- Employment-based immigrant petitions — 8 CFR 204.5 (opens an official external source) ↗
- Employment-based immigrant visas — U.S. Department of State (opens an official external source) ↗
Requirements can change. Check the current official instructions and obtain advice about your circumstances.
General information only; it does not replace advice about an individual case.