It is not required. The EB-1B, designed for outstanding professors and researchers, asks you to demonstrate outstanding recognition by your peers in your academic or research field. That recognition does not need to be strictly international to count.
What truly matters is the quality and relevance of your work, demonstrated in a consistent way. Recognition at a national level, with solid projection and influence in the field, can be sufficient, as long as it is well documented.
- Relevant publications and citations of your work by others.
- Awards or distinctions of significant standing in the field.
- Contributions that have influenced research or teaching in the field.
Since each case is evaluated individually, your documents must clearly support the exceptional nature of your work. It is worth checking the updated requirements at the official source (USCIS) and aligning your strategy with a specialist before filing.
Learn more about EB-1
- Category
- EB-1 Green Card (1st priority)
- Requirement
- Extraordinary ability
- Self-petition
- Allowed (no sponsor needed)
- Processing
- 6-18 months
Tags
About the author
Victoria Harper
Editor-in-Chief
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.