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My colleagues say I should try EB-1A. How do I confirm?

To confirm whether EB-1A is right for you, compare your track record of achievements against the extraordinary ability standard and USCIS criteria. An impartial evaluation prevents false expectations and avoids fraud.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 11, 2026
1 min read
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The EB-1A is the path for individuals with extraordinary ability in fields such as science, arts, education, business, or athletics. It is attractive because it allows self-petition, but it is not a simple application: you must demonstrate, with solid evidence, that you are among those who truly stand out in your field.

Confirming whether this category is right for you is, above all, an exercise in comparing your track record against the standard of distinction expected. It is worth looking at points such as:

  • Awards and recognitions that attest to excellence.
  • Publications, media coverage, or material about your work.
  • Participation in projects or initiatives with significant impact in the field.
  • Signs that your contributions are recognized by peers and leading references in your industry.

The next step is to organize that evidence strategically and compare it against the USCIS criteria, which evaluates each case individually. Be wary of anyone who promises guaranteed approval, because the process is rigorous. The safe path is to seek updated information from the official source and an impartial assessment of your profile with a specialist before deciding to petition.

Learn more about EB-1

Category
EB-1 Green Card (1st priority)
Requirement
Extraordinary ability
Self-petition
Allowed (no sponsor needed)
Processing
6-18 months
All about EB-1

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.

Victoria's tips

My colleagues say I should try EB-1A. How do I confirm?

To confirm whether EB-1A is right for you, compare your track record of achievements against the extraordinary ability standard and USCIS criteria. An impartial evaluation prevents false expectations and avoids fraud.

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