Updates to the EB1A USCIS Policy Manual: Essential Information You Need to Know.
USCIS has recently updated the EB-1A green card requirements. The big question on everyone’s mind is: Does this make obtaining an EB-1A green card easier?
Let’s take a closer look at the updates to the USCIS policy manual regarding EB-1A. If you are unfamiliar, the EB1A USCIS policy manual serves as a guide for officers reviewing applications. Understanding this manual is crucial for navigating the EB-1A requirements and knowing what evidence you need to provide.
Key Updates to the EB1A USCIS Policy Manual
Here are the recent changes to the EB1A USCIS policy manual and how they may benefit EB-1A applicants:
1.EB-1A Awards Criteria
The significant news is that USCIS now accepts team awards as eligible evidence for the EB-1A awards criteria; something that wasn’t allowed before. However, there’s a catch: you must be specifically named in the award recognition.
For example, if your team wins an award and each member receives a trophy, certificate, or medal with their name on it, that can fulfill the EB-1A awards requirement.
2.EB-1A Membership Criteria
Another update on the EB1A USCIS policy manual is that it allows the use of past memberships to qualify for the EB-1A membership criteria.
If you were previously part of an elite organization, you can submit that membership as evidence. However, USCIS will examine how long ago you were a member to determine if it shows your “sustained acclaim.”
3.EB-1A Published Material/Press Criteria
Notably, USCIS has removed the requirement that your published material must “showcase the significance of your work.” Now, having press coverage in major publications about you and your work is sufficient to meet this criterion.
While this change simplifies meeting the press criteria, it may still be challenging to satisfy the final merits determination.
4. EB-1A Artistic Exhibitions Criteria
Another update on the EB1A USCIS policy manual clarifies what constitutes ‘exhibition’ under the seventh EB-1A criterion, which involves the display of your work at artistic exhibitions. It now includes non-artistic exhibitions as well, provided you present strong, comparable evidence.
For instance, if your work has been showcased at a TEDx conference or other significant events in your field, that could strengthen your EB-1A application.
Conclusion
These are the latest updates to the USCIS policy regarding the EB-1A green card. Have these EB1A USCIS policy manual changes lowered the bar for EB-1A applicants? Not really. USCIS remains committed to attracting top talent to the U.S.
If you are currently working on your EB-1A application, focus on gathering strong, relevant evidence that genuinely demonstrates your extraordinary ability in your field.
Additionally, if you need personalized assistance to build a compelling EB-1A green card profile, consider exploring the Smart Green Card VIP plan.
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