My patent has been cited by laboratories in the U.S. and Japan. Is that good for the EB-1?

Having a patent cited by laboratories in the U.S., Japan, or other countries is indeed a positive indicator for the EB-1. Citations suggest that your innovation is being used or studied in relevant contexts, which helps demonstrate international recognition and the impact of your work.

The EB-1 is designed for individuals with extraordinary ability and recognized achievements in their field. Original contributions with reach beyond your home country tend to weigh favorably, because they show that your work influences the field beyond a local environment.

To make the most of this point, it is worth documenting clearly:

• Who cited the patent and in what context it was used or analyzed.
• The relevance of the laboratories or institutions involved.
• How your contribution connects to the advancement of your field.

Keep in mind that no single element determines the outcome: the petition is evaluated as a whole, on a case-by-case basis. It is worth reviewing the current requirements on the USCIS website and assessing your profile with a specialist before filing.

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.