Individuals eligible for extraordinary ability classification under the employment-based first preference (“EB1-A”) are at a tremendous advantage. They may skip the labor certification process normally required of their employers. In addition, they do not need a specific offer of future employment. These individuals must demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim in the field of endeavor, with a clear recognition that they are at the top of their fields. And while EB1-A individuals do not need a specific offer of employment, they must demonstrate the intent to continue to work in their field, and that doing so would prospectively benefit the U.S. Evidence shall include proof of an extraordinary one-time achievement (a major internationally-recognized award), or at least three of the following:
• Receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence. • Membership in associations which require outstanding achievements of their members, as judged by recognized national or international experts or evidenced by the membership criteria of the association.
• Published material about the applicant in professional publications or major media. • Evidence of the applicant’s participation, either individually or on a panel, as the judge of the work of others. • Evidence of the applicant’s original scientific, scholarly, artistic, athletic, or business-related contributions of major significance. • Evidence of the applicant’s scholarly articles in professional or major trade publications or other major media. • Evidence of the display of the applicant’s work at artistic exhibitions or showcases. • Evidence that the applicant has performed in a leading or critical role for organizations or establishments that have a distinguished reputation. • Evidence that the applicant has commanded a high salary or other significantly high remuneration. • Evidence of commercial success in the performing arts as shown by box office receipts or record, cassette, compact disc, or video sales.