The EB-1A green card remains one of the most prestigious U.S. immigration options due to its rigorous standards and limited availability each year. Many professionals mistakenly assume that the EB-1A is only achievable for world-renowned scientists, researchers, or professors. In reality, a wide range of evidence can be used to meet at least three of the ten USCIS criteria required to demonstrate “extraordinary ability.”
This detailed guide from the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link explores several of the less common or misunderstood EB-1A criteria, showing how they can apply to qualified professionals across diverse industries.
USCIS Policy Update – September 12, 2023
USCIS released updated policy guidance clarifying how officers assess EB-1A evidence and evaluate the totality of accomplishments presented in a petition. This update offers more detailed examples of acceptable proof under each criterion. For an in-depth overview, refer to the EB-1A policy update post at Green Card Link.
Unusual Criterion #1: Receipt of Lesser Nationally or Internationally Recognized Prizes or Awards
While this requirement might appear simple, proving a “lesser nationally or internationally recognized” award is often challenging. The award must relate directly to the applicant’s field and demonstrate wide recognition.
To determine whether an award qualifies, USCIS considers factors such as:
- The number of recipients or nominees;
- The competition level and selection process;
- The standards used for selection;
- The credentials of the judges or awarding body; and
- Whether the award was open nationally or internationally.
For instance, an award from the American Chemical Society would likely qualify as nationally recognized, given its reputation as the largest professional organization for chemists in the U.S. Even awards in non-academic fields—such as a “Rookie of the Year” title in a major sports league—can meet the standard if they receive national media attention.
Unusual Criterion #2: Membership in Exclusive Professional Associations
Membership in a professional organization can satisfy one EB-1A criterion—if it is based on outstanding achievement judged by recognized national or international experts. Merely paying a membership fee or holding a specific degree is not enough.
When evaluating this category, USCIS reviews:
- Whether the organization limits membership to exceptional professionals;
- The association’s bylaws and selection procedures;
- The number of accepted members per year; and
- The qualifications of those who select new members.
Examples may include elite professional fellowships or societies that require nominations or peer review for admission.
Unusual Criterion #3: Published Material About the Applicant in Major Media or Professional Publications
To qualify under this category, there must be substantial written material about the applicant’s work—not just general coverage of a project or team.
The material must:
- Appear in a major professional, trade, or media publication;
- Include the title, author, date, and translation if not in English;
- Focus on the applicant’s professional achievements rather than personal life; and
- Be accessible to a significant audience (high readership or website traffic).
Television or video interviews alone typically do not qualify, as the evidence must be in print or digital text format.
Unusual Criterion #4: Display of Work at Artistic Exhibitions or Showcases
This category primarily benefits visual or performing artists, but it applies broadly to anyone whose work has been publicly displayed.
Evidence can include:
- Programs, flyers, or promotional materials for exhibitions;
- Proof that the applicant’s work was presented alongside other notable artists; and
- Media coverage of the event, even if the applicant is not individually highlighted.
The showcase need not be prestigious, but its public and artistic nature must be established.
Unusual Criterion #5: Leading or Critical Role for Organizations with a Distinguished Reputation
Applicants must prove that:
- The organization is distinguished and well-recognized in its field; and
- The applicant’s role was leading or critical to its success.
Evidence can include:
- Independent media articles or awards validating the organization’s reputation;
- Organizational charts, job descriptions, and testimonials confirming the applicant’s central contributions; and
- Detailed letters from individuals with firsthand knowledge of the applicant’s work.
Simply working for a large company is not enough—the individual’s impact must be clearly demonstrated.
Unusual Criterion #6: High Salary or Other Significantly High Remuneration
USCIS compares the applicant’s compensation to others in the same field to determine whether it is significantly higher.
Evidence may include:
- Tax forms (W-2, 1099, or foreign equivalents);
- Pay stubs or employment contracts; and
- Benchmark data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Department of Labor, or other reputable salary databases.
Generally, being in the top 10% of earners in one’s field is persuasive. Salary comparisons should extend beyond local regions and reflect national or international market levels.
Unusual Criterion #7: Commercial Successes in the Performing Arts
This criterion applies exclusively to performing artists—musicians, actors, or dancers—with significant commercial success.
Acceptable evidence can include:
- Verified sales figures, streaming data, or box office receipts;
- Media coverage highlighting commercial success; and
- Comparisons to industry standards showing the applicant’s outstanding performance.
Simply selling tickets or albums is not enough; the evidence must show substantial and verifiable success.
Why the EB-1A Is Worth Pursuing
Although the EB-1A green card is one of the most difficult immigration categories to qualify for, it offers major advantages:
- No job offer or labor certification required;
- Faster processing times than many other employment-based green cards; and
- The ability to self-petition, giving applicants full control over their case.
However, self-petitioning doesn’t mean going it alone. The process demands precise documentation and a deep understanding of USCIS standards. Working with the experienced immigration attorneys at Green Card Link ensures that your petition is handled strategically and professionally.
How Green Card Link Can Help
The dedicated immigration attorneys at Green Card Link have successfully guided hundreds of extraordinary individuals in obtaining EB-1A classification. Our team understands the nuances of USCIS adjudication and can help identify the strongest evidence for your unique profile.
If you’re ready to explore your eligibility for the EB-1A visa, schedule a consultation with our experienced team today.
Your path to permanent residency through extraordinary ability begins here.