My award was granted by the association in my city. It’s quite small. Is it worth submitting?

The EB-1 visa, especially in the extraordinary ability category, requires that the applicant demonstrate a high level of recognition in their field, with evidence that goes beyond local achievements or minor awards. It’s important to understand that, although any award can add value to your process, its relevance is evaluated according to the notoriety and prestige of the award and the institution that granted it.

In your case, an award granted by an association in your city can be included as part of your portfolio, but since it is local and relatively small, it probably will not carry much weight on its own. The ideal for EB-1 processes is to present multiple proofs of international or national recognition, such as significant publications, citations, meaningful contributions to the area, or widely recognized awards.

These elements together build a robust set of evidence that can demonstrate your extraordinary ability. It is crucial to follow United States immigration laws and rely on support from trustworthy sources and experts on the subject. Be wary of miracle promises or marketing campaigns that guarantee results without a detailed analysis of your case.

Each application is unique, and the evaluation of the benefits of including certain awards must be done carefully and with thorough analysis. Remember that, although it is valid to include local awards as part of the evidence set, they should be weighed together with other more impactful proofs. The best strategy is to compose a diverse and robust portfolio that demonstrates your relevance and contribution in your field, always respecting the guidelines and requirements of the USCIS.

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.