EB1: Alien of Extraordinary Ability

An Alien of Extraordinary Ability petition requires the person to demonstrate s/he is in fact extraordinary. Extraordinary Ability means a “level of expertise indicating that the person is one of the small percentages who have risen to the top of the field of endeavor.” Extraordinary Ability may be evidenced by the beneficiary’s receipt of a “major, internationally recognized award, such as the Nobel Prize.”

You must be able to demonstrate extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics through sustained national or international acclaim. Your achievements must be recognized in your field through extensive documentation. No offer of employment is required.

You must provide evidence of a one-time achievement (i.e., Pulitzer, Oscar, Olympic Medal) or meet 3 of 10 criteria below:

Criteria for Demonstrating Extraordinary Ability

Alternatively, extraordinary ability may be evidenced by at least three of the following ten forms of documentation:

  • Receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards
  • Membership in associations that require outstanding achievement
  • Published material about you in professional or major trade publications or other media
  • Served as a judge of the work of others (individually or on a panel)
  • Original contributions of major significance in the field (scientific, scholarly, artistic, athletic, or business-related)
  • Authorship of scholarly articles or publications in profession or major trade publications or media
  • Display of work at Artistic exhibitions or showcases
  • Performance of a Leading or critical role for distinguished organizations
  • Receipt of High salary or remuneration in relation to others in the field
  • Commercial success in performing arts

Please contact our office to review your credentials to see if qualify for permanent residency through an Alien of Extraordinary Ability Petition.