I have regional awards, but I also presented at national events. Does that work for EB-1A?

They can work, yes, but as part of a larger picture. EB-1A is the path for those who demonstrate extraordinary ability, and the evaluation looks at the sum of all evidence, not at any single item. Regional awards and presentations at national events fit into that picture as elements that help build your case.

Regional awards carry more weight when they are recognized within the field and come alongside other indicators of prestige. Participation in national events, in turn, shows activity on a broader stage, reinforcing the perceived relevance of your work.

The core issue is the consistency of the overall profile. The reviewing authority assesses whether the different pieces of evidence work together and paint a coherent record of distinction, so it is worth combining these recognitions with evidence such as publications, citations, and contributions of notable impact.

Since each case is evaluated individually, the right approach is to assemble a varied and coherent portfolio and verify the current requirements with USCIS or a qualified 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.