We founded a globally recognized nonprofit. Does it count for EB-1A?

Having founded and led a globally recognized nonprofit can be a valuable piece of an EB-1A petition, but it is not, on its own, a requirement or a guarantee of approval. The EB-1A is the green card pathway for those who demonstrate extraordinary ability and sustained recognition in their field, and the organization counts as one of several pieces of evidence of that distinction.

The weight of the nonprofit depends on your role in it and the real impact of its work. Leading a project with international reach helps show influence and relevance, especially when accompanied by other signs of personal excellence.

• Your concrete role in founding and directing the organization.
• The verified impact and reach of its work.
• Awards, publications, and media coverage linked to your name.
• Letters from experts attesting to your contribution to the field.

The EB-1A review is individualized and looks at the overall profile, not a single achievement in isolation. It is worth gathering varied evidence and evaluating your case with a specialist before filing, checking updated requirements with USCIS.

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.