I was paid as a speaker above the standard rate. Does it count as ‘high salary’?

It can count. In the EB-1, compensation that is high relative to the standard in your field may help support the criterion known as ‘high salary’, and above-average fees received as a speaker fit within that logic. The key point is demonstrating that what you earn sets you apart from other professionals in your sector.

Even so, this indicator alone is rarely sufficient. The assessment is made case by case and typically requires a clear comparison against the market standard, along with other evidence reinforcing your position of distinction.

• Compare your compensation against the benchmark for your field, not in absolute terms.
• Gather contracts, payment records, and statements that contextualize the amounts.
• Combine this criterion with other evidence of your merit.

Because interpretation varies depending on the case, it is worth checking the current criteria with USCIS and seeking expert guidance to present the comparison in a compelling way.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

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.