My publications are in Q2 and Q3 journals, but my citation record is strong. Does it count?

Yes. In the EB-1, what carries weight is not only the prestige of the journal but also the impact and recognition your work has earned in the field. Publications in Q2 and Q3 journals can be included in the body of evidence, especially when they come with a strong citation record.

Relevant citations help demonstrate that your research has influenced other professionals, which supports the claim of extraordinary ability. Even without the highest-impact-factor venue, a consistent citation history can reinforce the value of your contributions.

USCIS evaluates documentation holistically, so the ideal approach is to combine your publications with other supporting elements, such as:

• Awards and recognitions in your field.
• Conference participation and collaborations with experts.
• Patents, recommendation letters, and other proof of impact.

Each case is reviewed individually. It is worth building a solid portfolio and verifying the updated requirements with USCIS or an immigration 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.