For EB-1A, if I win 2 smaller but international awards, do they count as 1 criterion?

The EB-1A visa requires the applicant to demonstrate extraordinary achievements in their field, and part of this demonstration can be through the presentation of awards and recognitions. Each category of evidence must convincingly show that you are among the best in your field.

This means that even if you have two international awards considered of lesser importance compared to a highly prestigious award, the combination may serve to illustrate your extraordinary ability. However, it is important to understand that USCIS carefully evaluates each criterion, and the value of each award is assessed in terms of its prestige and international relevance.

If the awards are smaller in scale, they may be considered together, but it is necessary to demonstrate that even combined, they represent a significant and internationally accepted recognition in your profession. For these awards to effectively contribute to your petition, in addition to presenting them in an organized manner, it is crucial to contextualize them – explaining their importance, the selection criteria, and the impact they had in your field.

This aggregated analysis must show that you truly stand out among your peers. Always remember the importance of strictly following United States immigration laws, seeking information from reliable sources, and relying on specialized advice (without promises of results or guarantees) to avoid pitfalls and deceptive campaigns that promise miraculous solutions.

Each case has particularities that need to be thoroughly analyzed to build a solid and coherent 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.