I volunteered as a speaker for NGOs. Does that count as ‘judge’ in the EB-1?

Speaking as a volunteer for NGOs generally does not qualify under the criterion of acting as a ‘judge’ within the EB-1. Sharing knowledge with an audience is different from evaluating the work of others.

In the EB-1 for extraordinary ability, this criterion refers to formally and recognizably judging the output of peers in your field, for example as a panel member, peer reviewer, or juror in competitions and conferences in your discipline.

• Giving a talk means disseminating knowledge, not judging peers.
• The judging criterion presupposes being officially invited to evaluate someone else’s work.
• Voluntary activity may provide context for your overall profile, but it rarely supports this specific criterion on its own.

Because interpretation of each criterion varies case by case, it is worth reviewing the updated USCIS guidance and consulting a specialist to determine where your experience fits best.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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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.