Do articles published in a local academic journal count as scientific publications for the EB-1?

They can. In the EB-1, articles published in a local academic journal may be treated as scientific publications, provided the venue meets recognized standards, such as peer review and editorial standing in the field. What matters is not just the existence of the publication, but the weight it carries.

In the evaluation, what counts is how widely your work has been read, cited, and recognized by other professionals in the field. Publications with limited reach can still help, but they tend to carry more weight when part of a broader body of evidence.

• Peer-reviewed journals with credibility in the field.
• Signs of impact, such as citations and use of your work by others.
• Additional evidence that reinforces your contribution and rounds out the portfolio.

Since each case is assessed individually, the ideal approach is to demonstrate not just where you published, but the impact of what you published. Check the latest USCIS guidance and, when possible, evaluate your positioning with a specialist.

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.