I won 2 regional awards, but nothing national. Which criterion can I fit into?

The EB‑1 visa, aimed at individuals with extraordinary abilities, requires the demonstration of substantial recognition in the field of expertise. One of the ways to prove this is, indeed, by obtaining recognized awards. However, for this specific criterion of awards, it is ideal that they cover national or international spheres, as they demonstrate a higher level of widely recognized excellence.

In your case, having received two regional awards can indeed contribute to the set of evidence in your profile, but it is likely that, in isolation, they are not sufficient to fulfill the criterion of awards of major national or international relevance. It is important to analyze whether the regional awards have strict criteria, a competitive selection process, and are well recognized within your field.

If it is possible to demonstrate that these awards reflect a thorough evaluation and a high distinction, they can be considered part of a broader set of proofs that demonstrate your professional prominence. It is worth noting that the EB‑1 is usually evaluated based on a diverse set of evidence, such as publications, awards, participation in prestigious associations, leadership in important projects, and other achievements that attest to your position as a reference in the field.

Therefore, it is recommended to gather other forms of recognition and achievements that, together, compensate for the potential limitation of regional awards. Finally, it is essential to rigorously follow immigration laws and stay attentive to information from reliable sources. Seeking assistance from recognized specialists in the immigration field can help build a solid dossier and avoid mistakes or unfounded promises circulating on the internet. Each case has its particularities, and a thorough analysis of your set of evidence will help identify the best strategy for your application.

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.