I have 3 regional awards. Can they add up to ‘international awards’?

To begin with, it is important to understand that the EB-1 visa aims to attract professionals who demonstrate extraordinary ability in their fields of expertise. One way to prove this ability is through awards and recognition, but the USCIS analyzes each piece of evidence individually, considering the degree of prestige and international or national recognition of the award.

In the specific case of awards, the United States immigration authority usually values those that demonstrate recognition on a national or international level. Regional awards can, indeed, contribute to the proof of professional excellence, but they are generally not considered equivalent to international awards, as the impact and recognition tend to be more limited.

In other words, even if you have won three regional awards, these awards do not automatically ‘add up’ to be seen as an international-scale award. Each award is evaluated by its prestige and the recognition it holds within the area of expertise.

Furthermore, it is essential to always observe U.S. immigration laws and seek information from reliable sources, since the trade of services related to the EB-1 may attract misleading offers or marketing campaigns that promise guaranteed results. The complexity of the process requires a detailed analysis of your professional history and the relevance of the awards received. Therefore, it is advisable to check the criteria established by immigration for each category and, if necessary, consult specialized professionals on the subject – always with caution regarding promises that may violate legal and ethical practices.

In summary, although regional awards are relevant and may strengthen your case, they alone are not usually counted the same way as internationally recognized awards for EB-1 purposes. Each piece of evidence must be carefully evaluated, always considering the specific regulations and requirements of the United States immigration process.

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.