Does the EB-1B require a ‘record of original research’?

No. The EB-1B, the category designed for outstanding professors and researchers, does not treat a record of original research as a standalone formal requirement. What the category calls for is demonstrated international recognition in your field, shown through a body of evidence evaluated as a whole.

A track record of original research is often a strong piece of evidence, but it is just one among several. Depending on your profile, other forms of proof can carry equal weight:

• Academic publications and the impact of your work.
• Awards and distinctions relevant to your field.
• Participation as a peer reviewer of other researchers’ work.
• Reference letters from recognized authorities in the area.

In practice, the USCIS reviews this body of evidence to assess whether you truly have a distinguished career, and each case is evaluated individually. That is why building a coherent portfolio that demonstrates your contribution matters more than having any single specific credential.

Since criteria are assessed on a case-by-case basis, it is worth checking the current requirements on the official source and reviewing your profile with a specialist before filing.

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.