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I joined a gastronomy association that requires proof of 5 years of experience and a recommendation. Is this selective?

Associations that require proven experience and recommendations indicate selectivity, reinforcing professional recognition and can help in processes such as the EB-1 visa.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on March 11, 2026
2 min read
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It is very important to understand that, for certain types of immigrant visas, such as the EB‑1, evidence of professional recognition may include memberships in associations that have selective criteria.

In other words, when an association requires, for example, five years of proven experience and recommendations, this characterizes a selective process, demonstrating that members have undergone a rigorous evaluation within their field of expertise.

In your specific case, joining a gastronomy association that imposes these requirements can indeed be considered an indication of selectivity, since the demand for proof of experience and recommendations implies that not everyone will have easy access to the association.

This condition can serve as a point in favor for those intending to prove, in a process such as the EB‑1, extraordinary ability and professional recognition.

However, it is essential to understand that each piece of evidence must be part of a larger set of documentation and other criteria required by United States immigration.

It is worth emphasizing the importance of always following the immigration laws of the country in question when gathering and presenting these documents.

Similarly, consulting reliable sources and specialized agents is recommended, avoiding scams or marketing campaigns that promise simplified solutions for processes that, by their nature, are complex and rigorously evaluated by immigration authorities.

Remember that proving qualifications requires submitting consistent evidence and careful analysis of every aspect of your professional history, and that belonging to a selective organization can be a valuable part of this demonstration, but it is never the only factor to be considered.

Learn more about EB-1 Visa

Category
EB-1 Green Card (1st priority)
Requirement
Extraordinary ability
Self-petition
Allowed (no sponsor needed)
Processing
6-18 months
All about EB-1 Visa
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.

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I joined a gastronomy association that requires proof of 5 years of experience and a recommendation. Is this selective?

Associations that require proven experience and recommendations indicate selectivity, reinforcing professional recognition and can help in processes such as the EB-1 visa.

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