Can I cite an impact factor of 2.5? Is that high?

Yes, you can cite the impact factor of the journals where you have published as part of the evidence in an EB-1 petition, but it helps to understand what that number actually represents. Impact factor is not a formal criterion defined by U.S. immigration authorities and, on its own, does not determine whether your work meets the relevance required by the extraordinary ability category.

Whether a value like 2.5 is considered high depends heavily on your field of expertise. In disciplines where indices tend to be lower, it may be competitive; in fields with naturally higher metrics, it may read as moderate. The same number is therefore interpreted differently depending on the context of your specialty.

What truly matters is the overall body of evidence you assemble. Impact factor carries more weight when supported by other indicators of recognition, such as:

• Citations of your work by other researchers.
• Awards and distinctions relevant to your field.
• Participation as a reviewer or member of committees and evaluation panels.
• Letters from specialists explaining the significance of your publications.

Rather than relying on a single metric, focus on telling a coherent story of impact. Since each case is evaluated individually, it is worth reviewing the current criteria on the USCIS website and seeking a specialized assessment of your profile before assembling your petition package.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.