I was awarded a medal by the mayor. Does it count as a ‘major’ award?

The EB-1 is a visa category intended for individuals with extraordinary abilities, proven by awards or medals of national or international recognition. The USCIS requires such awards to meet strict criteria to be considered ‘major awards’, meaning of great prestige and scope.

Medals granted by the mayor must demonstrate relevance beyond the municipal level, and may have greater value if the municipality has a tradition or national recognition in a certain field. Usually, local awards are seen as local merit and do not characterize extraordinary ability for the EB-1.

It is essential to present detailed evidence about the notoriety, competition, and relevance of the award, including its history and external recognition. It is recommended to follow US immigration regulations, consult official sources and reliable specialists, avoiding unfounded promises.

In summary, a mayor’s medal may be part of a portfolio, but it will only be a ‘major award’ if its national or international importance is proven, according to legal requirements.

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.