I have university awards, but the college is nationally recognized. Should I try EB-1A?

The EB-1A is a visa intended for individuals who demonstrate extraordinary ability in their fields of expertise, whether in science, arts, education, business, or sports. This category requires the applicant to provide robust and internationally recognized evidence of their achievements, which includes awards, publications, participation in panels, among other criteria established by the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services).

In your case, having university awards from an institution with national recognition can be a positive point, but it is important to analyze whether such awards meet the standards required to prove ‘extraordinary ability’. The USCIS evaluates each piece of evidence considering its relevance, impact, and recognition beyond a limited context.

Even if the award is from a nationally respected college, it may be necessary to demonstrate that this recognition extends beyond borders or is considered high-level within your field of expertise. Another relevant issue is that the EB-1A process requires the submission of a variety of proofs that, together, indicate that you have reached a level of excellence that significantly stands out from most professionals.

Therefore, besides awards, other documents such as publications in specialized journals, participation in international events, or relevant citations may strengthen your application. Remember that it is essential to strictly follow United States immigration laws and, whenever possible, seek complementary information through official sources or recognized experts in the area.

There are many offers in the market, many of them promising quick and guaranteed results, which are nothing more than marketing strategies. Exercising caution and seeking reliable contacts is fundamental to avoid scams and future losses.

I hope these guidelines help you understand what may be necessary for an EB-1A application. Each case has its particularities, and a thorough and detailed evaluation of your profile is essential to define the best strategy to be adopted.

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.