My lectures were only regional, with no national reach. Should I try a different criterion?

Lectures limited to a regional audience may carry less weight in an EB-1 case due to lower visibility, but that does not mean you need to abandon your strategy or switch criteria. The most common approach is to combine multiple types of evidence to build a strong case, rather than relying on a single element.

The EB-1 is designed for individuals who demonstrate outstanding ability in their field, and that demonstration can come from many angles. Even regional lectures can contribute when they produced meaningful outcomes, such as partnerships, industry changes, or citations by other professionals.

• Publications and articles in recognized outlets in your field.
• Technical contributions with documented impact on the industry.
• Awards and recognitions granted by respected organizations.
• Leadership or a central role in projects with reach beyond your region.

The strength of a case typically comes from the consistency and quality of the overall body of evidence, not just the geographic reach of a single activity. It is worth checking the most current requirements on the USCIS website and evaluating your profile with a qualified specialist before deciding on the direction of your petition.

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.