America has long been a land of opportunity, with immigrant entrepreneurs playing a vital role in innovation and economic success. Immigrants or their children have founded 45% of Fortune 500 companies, and their businesses employ millions across the U.S.
Startups led by immigrant entrepreneurs have revolutionized industries from technology to healthcare.
Given their significant contributions, it’s no surprise that the U.S. offers pathways like the EB-1A green card to attract individuals with extraordinary abilities. For those with proven success in science, education, or technology, the EB-1A green card could be the gateway to building a future in the U.S.
What is an EB-1?
An EB-1 is an employment-based green card that allows individuals with extraordinary abilities, outstanding professors or researchers, or multinational executives and managers to obtain permanent residency in the U.S. It falls under the first preference category for employment-based immigration.
EB-1a is for people with extraordinary abilities in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, demonstrated through sustained national or international acclaim.
EB-1b is for outstanding professors or researchers who are internationally recognized and coming to work in tenure-track or similar positions.
EB-1c is for multinational executives or managers being transferred to the U.S. by their company.
To qualify for an EB-1a visa, individuals must meet at least three of ten criteria set by the U.S. government. Some exceptional cases, like winning a major award (e.g., the Nobel Prize), may be enough to qualify directly.
What Are the Criteria for an EB-1a Green Card, and How Can I Prove Them?
USCIS outlines ten criteria for EB-1a applicants. Meeting at least three of these strengthens your chances of getting the visa, though the more criteria you meet, the better.
Original Contributions of Major Significance
Applicants must show their work has significantly impacted their field. This can include patents, published papers, or scientific innovations. Provide citations or evidence of others implementing your work. Include recommendation letters from peers and experts.
Authorship of Scholarly Articles
Demonstrate that you’ve authored articles in prominent peer-reviewed journals or major media. Use citation counts, journal impact factors, and other metrics to reinforce your case.
Judging the Work of Others
Evidence of serving as a peer reviewer, judge, or panelist in your field strengthens this criterion. Include proof of these roles, such as emails, certificates, or acknowledgments.
Published Material About the Applicant
Press coverage from recognized media outlets such as Forbes or scientific journals strengthens this criterion. Avoid less credible internal company publications or press releases.
Membership in Prestigious Associations
Provide evidence of membership in selective organizations that require significant achievements. For example, membership in the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) or the Royal Society.
High Salary or Remuneration
Show that your salary is higher than the average for your field. Use salary summaries, W-2 forms, or stock options as evidence.
Critical or Leading Role in a Distinguished Organization
Demonstrate your critical role in a respected organization by showing leadership responsibilities or significant contributions to major projects.
How Can Scientists Use Their Documentation to Support an EB-1a Visa Application?
For scientists, documenting discoveries and achievements that built your professional reputation can also prove eligibility for an EB-1a visa. Your scientific papers and awards could be key to showing your extraordinary ability.
Case Study: Our Client´s Contributions to Metabolomics Research
Our client, a globally recognized scientist specializing in metabolomics, demonstrates how extraordinary achievements can lead to a successful extraordinary visa application. With 62 published scholarly articles and over 6,200 citations in high-ranking journals such as Nature and Cancer Research, our client focuses on the metabolic processes that drive diseases like cancer. Her groundbreaking contributions include advising on innovative therapeutic strategies for liver cancer and advancing research at leading research institutions. Her work has helped expand the laboratory’s research capabilities, leading to significant advances in understanding and diagnosing metabolic disorders. This case exemplifies how scientists can highlight original contributions, publications, and critical roles to secure an EB-1A green card.
If you’re a scientist considering an EB-1a visa, contact Stelmakh & Associates. While based in Seattle, we serve clients worldwide. We can guide you through the process and help you organize the necessary documentation. Call us at 206-558-6288 or book a consultation here to learn more. Let us help you navigate the process of proving your scientific contributions for an EB-1a visa.
Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash