I got mentions on regional sports news sites. Does that count as ‘major media’ for EB-1?

Mentions on regional sports news sites can be a positive signal in the EB-1, but they do not automatically qualify under the ‘major media’ criterion. That term typically refers to outlets with broad reach, whether national or international, recognized for their prestige and influence.

What is evaluated is whether the coverage shows that your work reached a wide and relevant audience. A regional mention carries less weight than a feature in a widely circulated outlet, but that does not make it irrelevant.

If the regional sites have meaningful recognition and real influence in your field, they can contribute to the overall body of evidence. To present them effectively, it helps to gather:

• The articles, with the outlet name and date clearly identified.
• Information about the publication’s reach and audience.
• Context that demonstrates the outlet’s relevance in your field.

Because the evaluation is individual and depends on the interpretation of the adjudicating authority, it is worth reviewing the latest guidance with USCIS or a qualified specialist.

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.