I won regional music awards and had 2 TV news features on a state channel. Does that count for the EB-1?

Regional music awards and features on a state TV channel can be submitted as evidence for the EB-1, but they rarely sustain a petition on their own. This visa, designed for individuals with outstanding recognition in their field, evaluates the full body of evidence and the real reach of each achievement, not merely the number of items presented.

Awards with regional scope and local media coverage tend to be read as early-stage recognition. They carry more weight when you can show that your work has resonated beyond the local level and is valued by respected figures in the field.

• Provide context for each award: who grants it, how competitive it is, and what audience it reaches.
• Gather media coverage from reputable outlets that focuses specifically on your work.
• Complement with expert letters, publications, and roles of distinction.

Because the assessment is made on a case-by-case basis and considers your entire portfolio, it is worth reviewing the current criteria on the USCIS website and discussing your profile with a specialist before defining your strategy.

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.