I have no ‘judge’ role or awards, but NASA adopted my invention. Does it count as an ‘original contribution’ for the EB-1?

It can. In the EB-1, the ‘original contribution’ criterion is proven by an innovation that had real, recognized impact in your field, not by the existence of awards or by serving as a ‘judge’. These are independent criteria.

An invention of yours adopted by NASA is strong evidence: it shows that your work moved beyond the idea stage and is being used by a leading institution. How much weight it carries depends on how well you can document the adoption and its effects.

• Gather official documents, contracts, or records that prove the adoption.
• Describe the problem the invention solved and the practical result achieved.
• Add letters from independent experts attesting to the originality and impact.

The absence of awards does not prevent the petition, since the EB-1 allows different combinations of evidence. It is worth confirming the current criteria with the USCIS and structuring your evidence with a 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.