Anyone who can demonstrate that they have achieved a certain level of success and recognition in their respective field may qualify for a merit-based visa.
These include that EB-1A visa and the National Interest Waiver, neither of which require sponsorship from an employer.
What is EB-1A?
The EB1A visa is designed for individuals who possess exceptional talent in specific industries. It caters to foreign nationals with extraordinary abilities in fields such as arts, sciences, business, education, and athletics.
To obtain an EB1A visa, you need to demonstrate both your extraordinary ability and your intention to continue working in your field upon entering the United States.
Extraordinary ability signifies that you belong to the distinguished few who have reached the pinnacle of their respective fields.
There are various ways to prove extraordinary ability, including receiving significant industry awards, earning a substantially higher salary compared to others in your field, and other relevant factors (which will be discussed in detail below).
The EB1A classification is an immigrant category, providing eligibility for a green card not only for the applicant but also for their spouse and children.
Additionally, the EB1A classification allows for self-petition, enabling applicants to apply on their own behalf without the need for a sponsoring employer.
Eligibility Criteria:
The EB1A visa is available to individuals with extraordinary abilities in arts, sciences, business, athletics, or education.
The EB1A visa is reserved for those who have achieved the highest levels of success in their respective fields.
To secure an EB1A visa, you must demonstrate extraordinary ability and a commitment to continuing work in your field upon entering the United States.
How do you qualify for EB1A?
To qualify for EB1A, you must prove:
1. That you have an extraordinary ability in either the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.
2. That you are coming to the United States to continue working in your field of extraordinary ability.
3. That your entry to the United States will substantially benefit the United States.
Extraordinary Ability Definition:
Extraordinary ability refers to a high level of expertise that places an individual at the pinnacle of their field of endeavor. To prove your extraordinary ability, you need to present evidence of sustained national or international acclaim and recognition of your achievements within your field.
There are two approaches to meet this requirement:
1. One -Time Achievement:
A major, internationally recognized award, such as the Nobel Peace Prize or an Academy Award, can demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim.
2. Meeting Three of the Ten Criteria:
If you don't have a major award, you can satisfy this requirement by fulfilling at least three of the following criteria:
1. Receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards.
2. Membership in associations that require outstanding achievements.
3. Publication of your work in professional or major trade publications.
4. Participation as a judge in your field of specialization.
5. Significant contributions in your field of endeavor.
6. Authorship of scholarly articles.
7. Display of your work at exhibitions or showcases.
8. Leading or critical role for distinguished organizations.
9. Commanding a high salary or remuneration.
10. Commercial successes in the performing arts.
Proving Intent to Continue Working:
Alongside demonstrating extraordinary ability, you must provide clear evidence that you intend to work in your field within the United States. No job offer is required for this purpose.
This can be established through:
1. Letters from potential employers in your field.
2. Contracts with U.S. companies indicating your commitment to work.
3. A detailed written statement outlining your plans to work in the U.S.
Demonstrating Substantial Benefit to the United States:
The final requirement is to show that your entry to the U.S. will substantially benefit the country. Typically, working in your area of extraordinary ability is considered beneficial. A written statement explaining how your work will contribute to the United States is usually sufficient.
Examples of Documentary Evidence That A Person is an Outstanding Professor Or Researcher:
1. Evidence of receipt of major prizes or awards for outstanding achievement
2. Evidence of membership in associations that require their members to demonstrate outstanding achievement
3. Evidence of published material in professional publications written by others about the alien's work in the academic field
4. Evidence of participation, either on a panel or individually, as a judge of the work of others in the same or allied academic field
5. Evidence of original scientific or scholarly research contributions in the field
6. Evidence of authorship of scholarly books or articles (in scholarly journals with international circulation) in the field.
Common questions about EB-1A:
Obtaining an EB-1A visa is challenging as it is specifically designed for individuals with extraordinary ability in their fields. The eligibility criteria are rigorous, requiring substantial evidence of exceptional talent, recognition, and contributions. The application process involves showcasing major awards, published work, media recognition, and expert testimonials. Approvals are at the discretion of USCIS officers, and each case is evaluated individually. The difficulty level varies based on qualifications, evidence strength, and officer interpretation.
What is the success rate of EB-1A?
As long as the petitioner provides a complete list of documents that prove his or her qualifications and extraordinary ability, the approval rate is almost 100%. The success rate of the EB-1A visa can vary depending on several factors, including the strength of the applicant's case, the quality of evidence presented, and the discretion of the USCIS officer reviewing the application. While specific success rates are not publicly available, it is important to note that the EB-1A category is known for being highly competitive due to its stringent requirements. To increase the chances of success, it is crucial to thoroughly prepare and present a compelling case with substantial evidence of extraordinary ability and sustained national or international acclaim.
What is a US National Interest Waiver?
A US National Interest Waiver (NIW) is an immigration benefit that allows certain foreign nationals to seek permanent residency (green card) in the United States without the need for a job offer or labor certification.
It is granted based on the individual's ability to demonstrate that their work is of substantial intrinsic merit and national importance, and that their admission to the United States would greatly benefit the country. The NIW is available under the EB-2 visa category.
National Interest Waiver (NIW) Eligibility:
The eligibility criteria for the National Interest Waiver (NIW) are defined by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Generally, individuals who can demonstrate that their work or contributions are of substantial intrinsic merit and national importance may qualify for the NIW. They must also establish that it would be in the national interest of the United States to waive the usual requirement of a job offer and labor certification.
NIW is not limited to any particular visa category and can be pursued by individuals who meet the eligibility requirements, regardless of their current visa status. It is possible to apply for the National Interest Waiver (NIW) outside the United States.