Can I include regional awards won in multiple competitions in my O-1 petition?

Yes, you can. Under the O-1, regional awards won across multiple competitions can be part of your portfolio of achievements. They help build a picture of notable recognition in your field, especially when combined with other evidence of distinction.

Context matters, though. Immigration authorities tend to value signals of prestige at a broader level, so regional awards carry more weight when they reflect a consistent track record rather than standing alone. What matters is how the full picture reads together.

• Contextualize each award: what it represents and how competitive it is.
• Show the impact that recognition has had on your career.
• Pair regional awards with publications, letters, and other distinctions.

Because each case is assessed individually, relevance depends on the overall package you present. To understand how your specific awards fit in, it is worth checking the latest guidance on the USCIS website or consulting a specialist.

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.