My award is sector-specific but draws competitors from across the country. Does it count as ‘major’ for EB-1?

Possibly. The fact that your award attracts competitors from across the country is a positive sign: it points to national reach rather than purely local scope, which weighs in your favor for EB-1. But that alone does not determine whether it qualifies as ‘major’.

In the context of this visa, a ‘major’ award is one recognized as among the most prestigious and distinguished within your field. A sector-specific award can meet that bar, depending on how highly it is regarded by experts and the broader community in your area of expertise.

• Demonstrate the award’s history, prestige, and selectivity.
• Document the scope of the competition and the profile of past recipients.
• Gather media coverage and expert opinions attesting to the award’s stature.

The assessment is holistic and made on a case-by-case basis by the relevant authority. It is worth reviewing the current criteria on the USCIS website and positioning the award within your full body of evidence with the help of 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.