I was appointed as a voluntary advisor to a global NGO. Which EB-1 criterion does that fit?

An appointment as a voluntary advisor to a recognized global NGO can, in fact, support an EB-1 petition, depending on how the experience is presented and documented. The unpaid nature does not diminish its value: what matters is the prestige of the organization and the reason you were chosen.

This type of appointment often aligns with criteria related to performing a leading or critical role in distinguished organizations, or to membership in associations that select members on the basis of merit. For this to work, you need to show that the NGO holds genuine recognition in its field and that the invitation came from your contributions and reputation, not from an open application process.

• Document the organization’s recognition and reach.
• Describe your responsibilities and the concrete impact of the role.
• Show that the appointment resulted from merit and selectivity.

Since the exact framing depends on the full picture of your profile, it is worth reviewing the current EB-1 criteria on the USCIS website or with a specialist to position this experience in the strongest way.

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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.