How to Get an EB1A Approved Without Academic Citations

As an immigration attorney, I often hear from business professionals who worry that they don’t qualify for an EB1A extraordinary ability green card because they don’t have academic citations. Many assume that without publications and peer-reviewed journal citations, this path isn’t for them. The good news? That’s simply not true.

There are many ways to qualify for an EB1A that have nothing to do with academia. If you’ve built a successful business career, you may already meet key criteria for an extraordinary ability green card. Let’s break down how this works.

EB1A Is Not Just for Academics

The EB1A category is designed for individuals who have reached the top of their field, whether that’s science, business, arts, athletics, or education. While academic achievements (such as publications and citations) are commonly used evidence in EB1A petitions, they are not the only way to qualify.

For business professionals, executives, and entrepreneurs, there are alternative pathways to proving extraordinary ability based on career achievements.

The Three Most Common EB1A Criteria for Business Professionals

If you’re in the business world, here are three key criteria that are often used successfully in EB1A petitions:

1. Significant Contributions to Your FieldIf you’ve made regional or industry-wide contributions of major significance, this can be strong evidence of extraordinary ability.
   • Have you created something innovative in your industry?
   • Have you developed new business strategies, products, or technologies that have had a major impact?
   • Have you contributed to industry standards, reports, or policies that have influenced how business is done?
2. Critical or Leading Role in a Distinguished OrganizationThis criterion is commonly referred to as the "big job at a big company" approach. However, the company doesn’t have to be a massive corporation—it just needs to be distinguished in some way, and your role within it must be significant.
   • Have you held a key leadership position in a well-known company or organization?
   • Have your contributions been essential to the success or growth of your company?
   • Do you have decision-making authority or a role that significantly impacts operations or strategy?
3. High Salary or Compensation Relative to Others in Your FieldHigh remuneration is a clear marker of extraordinary ability and can be a strong element of an EB1A petition.
   • Are you among the top earners in your industry?
   • Do you receive a salary, bonuses, stock options, or other forms of compensation that are significantly higher than industry averages?

What If Your Lawyer Says This Isn’t a Strong Case?

If you’ve spoken to a law firm that was hesitant about an EB1A without academic citations, they may not be the right fit. Business immigration cases require a legal team that understands how to craft a compelling narrative based on alternative evidence, not just publications and citations.

At Locke Immigration Law, we specialize in helping business professionals, executives, and entrepreneurs secure extraordinary ability green cards. We take the time to assess your credentials, identify your strongest criteria, and build a robust case that aligns with USCIS expectations.

Ready to Explore Your EB1A Options?

You don’t need academic citations to qualify for an extraordinary ability green card. If you’ve built a very successful career and believe you’ve made a significant impact in your field, there may be a path forward.