For EB-1B, I have no awards, but I reviewed 20 articles and published 5 Q1 papers. Can that be enough?

In the EB-1B category, not having awards does not eliminate your candidacy. This category, designed for researchers and professors of international recognition, is evaluated holistically by USCIS, which considers a broad set of evidence rather than any single criterion.

Serving as a peer reviewer and publishing in high-impact journals are relevant strengths, because they signal that the academic community trusts your judgment and values your work. These elements gain weight when combined with other indicators of distinction.

• Citations and the significance of your work within the field.
• Participation in committees, dissertation panels, or prestigious review boards.
• Meaningful collaborations and recognition from experts in your area.

The goal is to build a portfolio that demonstrates international impact and your standing as a reference in your field. Every case is unique, so it is worth reviewing the current criteria on the USCIS website and evaluating 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.