Can regional awards count as ‘national’ awards?

The award criterion for the EB-1 visa is quite strict, as the goal is to demonstrate that the applicant possesses extraordinary abilities recognized nationally or internationally. Thus, a regional award by itself does not always meet the requirement of a ‘national award,’ but there are nuances to consider.

In some cases, regional awards can count if there is evidence that they have an impact beyond the original geographic boundaries. For example, if the award is granted by an entity whose reputation extends nationally or if the regional award stands out due to excellence criteria that make it comparable to national awards, it can be considered part of the evidence to demonstrate extraordinary abilities.

However, the analysis is done on a case-by-case basis and often requires robust documentation that proves the prestige and relevance of the award within the field of expertise. It is worth remembering that the EB-1 visa evaluation process involves presenting a diversified and consistent portfolio.

Thus, while a regional award can contribute to the narrative of success and recognition, the applicant usually also needs to present other documents and evidence that reinforce their outstanding position in the field, such as publications, committee participation, mentions in specialized media, among others.

It is important to follow United States immigration laws and be cautious with information and promises found on the internet. Seeking information through reliable sources and, if possible, consulting professionals specialized in the area can prevent risks and exposure to scams or marketing campaigns that promise results without guarantees.

Each case has its peculiarities, and only a detailed and individualized analysis can determine if the evidence presented will be sufficient to meet the stringent EB-1 criteria.

In summary, although regional awards are not automatically considered equivalent to national awards, in certain circumstances, they can indeed contribute to proving extraordinary recognition – provided they are accompanied by robust and well-founded documentation.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.