Can I cite two associations as separate criteria?

This is a common question in EB-1 cases, and the answer requires an important distinction. Membership in prestigious associations is typically treated as a single type of evidentiary criterion, not as a new criterion for each association cited. In other words, belonging to two organizations usually strengthens the same category of evidence rather than generating separate criteria.

That does not mean the second association is irrelevant. Two relevant memberships, each requiring recognized achievement for admission, make that evidence stronger and more compelling. The key is understanding the role each plays:

• Each association must require demonstrated merit to admit members.
• Together, they reinforce the same line of evidence, not distinct lines.
• The quality and relevance of each affiliation matter more than the number of affiliations.

The competent authority evaluates the full body of evidence in an integrated way, and how each category is counted follows its own rules. Before assembling your petition package, confirm the current requirements with USCIS or a qualified specialist to position each association correctly.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

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.