U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) updated its guidelines for evidence types for EB-1 visas. The visa is for individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields like science, arts, education, business, or athletics. To qualify, applicants need to show they have received significant recognition, meeting at least 3 out of 10 specific criteria.

The new guidance from USCIS pays special attention to team awards. USCIS will now consider team awards for applicants in lesser national or international honors and prizes. Awards and prizes is one of the criteria for EB-1 applications. Membership in organizations that require outstanding achievements is also accepted, but these memberships must be recognized by experts.

Previously, USCIS required evidence of published work to show the applicant’s contributions. This has changed; now, individuals only need to be mentioned in a “substantial discussion” about the topic or person, even if it was part of a team effort.

Additionally, there are updates to the artistic and showcases criteria. Applicants can use “comparable evidence” for some non-artistic exhibitions, but there are specific requirements for these types of showcases. Researchers and professors can qualify for the EB-1 visa if they meet at least 2 out of 6 evidentiary criteria.

If you have questions about the EB-1 visa or any other U.S. immigration issue, please contact us. Our clients work directly with attorneys to ensure they get expert guidance every step of the way. We welcome employment-based and family-based immigration matters.