I’m a violinist. I haven’t won awards, but I performed as a soloist with a major orchestra. Does that count?

Yes, performing as a soloist with a major orchestra can count as evidence of excellence in an EB-1 petition, even if you have no formal awards. It is a meaningful signal of recognition within the field.

Because the absence of prizes leaves a gap that other evidence must fill, the key is building a strong and varied portfolio that supports your standing in the field.

Some elements that help round out that portfolio:

• Reviews and mentions in specialized publications.
• Participation in prestigious festivals, tours, or projects.
• Statements from recognized experts about your work.

In other words, your experience as a soloist is a solid starting point, but it gains strength when supported by additional evidence of your artistic impact. Since each case is evaluated individually, it is worth checking the updated guidance on the USCIS website and reviewing your profile with a specialist.

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.