Extraordinary Ability
Extraordinary ability is a US immigration standard for people who have risen to the very top of their field and have sustained national or international acclaim. It is the basis for the EB-1A green card and the O-1A work visa.
How it is proven
You either show a major, internationally recognized award (such as a Nobel Prize) or meet at least three listed criteria. EB-1A has 10 criteria and O-1A has 8, including:
- Nationally or internationally recognized prizes
- Membership in associations that require outstanding achievement
- Published material about you
- Judging the work of others
- Original contributions of major significance
- Scholarly articles
- High salary
USCIS then weighs all the evidence together. The EB-1A lets you self-petition, while an O-1 needs a US employer or agent. See EB-1A, O-1A, and H-1B vs O-1.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a job offer for EB-1A?
No. You can file for yourself, but you must show you will keep working in your field in the US.
Is O-1 easier than EB-1A?
The O-1 standard is similar but often applied less strictly, and it is a temporary visa.
Is extraordinary ability the same for artists?
Artists usually use the O-1B standard of distinction, which is different from O-1A.
Official sources
- USCIS: EB-1uscis.gov
General information, not legal advice. NorthAmericans.com is independent and not affiliated with any government.