Extraordinary ability visa (EB-1)

EB1 immigrant visa is employment based and available to foreign nationals who demonstrate extraordinary ability in their field of expertise such as science, the arts, education, business or athletics achievements. 

EB1 visa: who can apply?

  • The top management or management of international corporates.
  • Extraordinary businessmen.
  • Talented performers or athletes (dancers, boxers, gymnasts etc.).
  • Accomplished and recognised  artists (singers, painters, photographers etc.).
  • Individuals with extraordinary achievement in cinema, media and TV.

In order to qualify for an EB-1 visa, you must meet at least three of the ten criteria: 

  1. You possess a national or an international recognition or/and award for achievements in your area of expertise. For example a Fields medal or Fulbright grant.
  2. You are a member of an organization only accepting individuals with extraordinary achievements or abilities.
  3. You were mentioned in the media, either well-known general-interest publications such as the New York Times or specialized media, such as The Journal of Otolaryngology.
  4. You have served as a judge or as a member of a jury in a competition.
  5. You have made a significant contribution to your area of expertise.
  6. You have authored articles published in reputable media. 
  7. Your works have been on display at various exhibitions.
  8. You are a senior manager or hold a significant position with a reputable organization.
  9. You receive substantial earnings due to your significant achievements..
  10. Your artistic products are commercially successful (as shown by gross sales from movie tickets, performances, reports on internet sales of your art).

However, only meeting three of the ten outlined above criteria is not sufficient to begin the EB-1 visa process. You have to demonstrate how your professional activity will benefit the US national interests. Also, our experience shows that nearly every single EB-1 visa application requires involvement of subject matter experts. 

Exceptions are made only for Olympic medalists, Nobel Prize or Academy Award (Oscar) winners. It is much easier for them to obtain an EB-1 visa. However, the applicants will have to demonstrate their intentions to continue their professional career in their areas.