Unlocking the EB-1A: The Key to Demonstrating Sustained Acclaim
Does meeting the three EB1A criteria qualify you for an EB1A visa? In addition to meeting these criteria, you must also demonstrate sustained acclaim to qualify for the EB1A green card.
In this blog, we discuss the EB1A evaluation and strategies to meet the EB1A requirement of sustained national or international acclaim. Let’s begin,
Overview of EB1A Evaluation
To evaluate EB1A petitions, USCIS follows a two-part approach:
First, USCIS determines whether your evidence meets three out of the ten EB1A criteria, based on the regulatory requirements.
Once you meet these three EB1A criteria, the USCIS officer then evaluates whether your evidence as a whole demonstrates sustained national or international acclaim and establishes you at the top of your field.
What is Sustained National or International Acclaim?
In the context of EB1A, “extraordinary ability” signifies a level of expertise that places a person among a small percentage who has risen to the top of their field.
According to federal law, such extraordinary individuals must have sustained national or international acclaim, which is a crucial requirement for EB1A. Let’s explain the meaning of sustained acclaim.
Sustained national or international acclaim means that you should be recognized for your achievements in your field of expertise. Additionally, you must maintain that comparable level of recognition over time, starting from when you first achieved acclaim.
For instance, if your work has been featured in major media in the past, that alone is not sufficient. Your work should have been consistently recognized at various points in time up to the filing of your petition, demonstrating that you have maintained your acclaim.
Can Early Career Professionals Demonstrate Sustained Acclaim?
According to the recent USCIS Policy Manual, it is stated that the term ‘sustained’ does not define an age limit or have a definitive time frame. Therefore, early career professionals are still able to showcase their sustained acclaim.
Strategies to Satisfy EB1A Sustained National or International Acclaim
First and foremost, it’s important to note that sustained national or international acclaim is not a separate EB1A criterion. The evidence you submit to meet the EB1A criteria as a whole must demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim. Here are some pro tips to build a strong EB1A profile and fulfill the requirement for sustained acclaim:
1. Gathering Strong Evidence for EB1A Criteria
When gathering your EB1A evidence, prioritize quality. Your evidence should clearly demonstrate your extraordinary ability in your field.
For instance, meeting the judging criteria includes submitting an invitation request for judging and a thank-you email confirming your completion of the judging activity, which may seem like sufficient evidence. However, it’s important to gather additional evidence that clearly shows the judging activity was offered based on your high level of expertise in your field.
2. Include Other Evidence of Extraordinary Ability
According to the recent USCIS Policy Manual, you can submit evidence that demonstrates your extraordinary ability, even if it doesn’t strictly fit into the EB1-A criteria.
For example, an invitation to speak or present your work at nationally or internationally recognized conferences implies recognition of your achievements in your field of expertise and can be included in the final merits determination.
3. Eliminate Weak Evidence from Your EB1A Application
Avoid adding weaker evidence just for the sake of having it; doing so diminishes the value of your overall petition.
For example, if you hold general memberships in your field, such as IEEE or IET, and you satisfy at least five criteria beyond mere membership, it is advisable not to include membership as one of your EB1-A criteria.
4. Tell an Effective Narrative of Your Extraordinary Ability
Finally, present a well-crafted story that demonstrates how your work is notable in the field and showcases your extraordinary ability in your area of expertise. Use language that is understandable, as USCIS officials may not be experts in your field.
Conclusion
Many EB1A applicants meet the three EB1A criteria but are denied because they fail to satisfy the sustained acclaim requirement.
At Smart Green Card VIP, we ensure that every piece of evidence gathered by our clients establishes their extraordinary ability, helping them navigate the final merits determination phase successfully.
In the VIP plan, we assist you in meeting at least 6 EB1A criteria and ensure you satisfy the final merits determination for success.
If you are seeking tailored support and guidance to build a compelling EB1A profile, explore the Smart Green Card VIP.
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