For EB-1A, do 3 minor awards substitute 1 major one?

Let’s begin by understanding that the EB-1A category requires proof of extraordinary ability through various criteria, including the obtaining of awards and recognitions. This visa option aims to identify professionals who have stood out nationally or internationally in their field of work.

Regarding the question about awards, there is no fixed rule that determines that three minor awards can automatically be treated as the substitution of a major award. In documents and analyses carried out by USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services), each piece of evidence presented is evaluated individually and within the context of the overall evidentiary record.

This means that, although having several minor awards may strengthen the argument that the candidate is widely recognized for their achievements, the evaluating officer will consider the relevance, prestige, and comparison among the awards. Furthermore, it is important to highlight that each case is unique. The analysis is not limited to a numerical formula – such as ‘three minor awards = one major award’ – but rather to the evaluation of the quality and impact of the recognitions, as well as how they fit into the candidate’s overall profile of extraordinary accomplishment.

Therefore, while multiple minor awards can indeed contribute to demonstrating the professional’s success and relevance, the equivalence between many less relevant awards and one that is widely recognized internationally will depend on how this evidence fits into the overall case. Given this complexity, it is emphasized that it is important to follow all United States immigration laws and guidelines and, if necessary, seek information from reliable and specialized sources.

Extra caution should be taken to avoid offers or campaigns that promise ready and guaranteed solutions, since each case has its particularities and the analysis is done thoroughly by USCIS.

In summary, although presenting several minor awards can help prove extraordinary ability, there is no pre-established rule defining that three of these awards equal one award of greater relevance. Each piece of evidence must be evaluated on its own merit and together with other elements of the petition.

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.