EB-1A EXTRAORDINARY ABILITY SELF-PETITION GREEN CARD

Pathway to Self-Petition for a Green Card

• The EB-1A green card is designed for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. Unlike many employment-based green card categories, the EB-1A allows self-petitioning — no employer sponsorship or labor certification is required.

• At Kennedy Law, we work with artists, researchers, entrepreneurs, athletes, and professionals at the top of their fields to craft petitions that highlight both their achievements and their long-term impact in the United States.

To qualify for an EB-1A, applicants must show they are among the small percentage at the very top of their field.  This can be done by:

one-time achievement such as a Pulitzer, Oscar, Olympic Medal, or other major international prize or meeting at least 3 of the 10 USCIS criteria, including:

• Nationally or internationally recognized awards
• Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement
• Published material about your work in major media
• Judging the work of others
• Original contributions of major significance
• Authorship of scholarly articles
• Artistic exhibitions or showcases
• Leading or critical role in distinguished organizations
• High salary or significant remuneration compared to peers
• Commercial success in the performing arts

 We Build EB-1A Cases For:

• Researchers & Academics – Scholars with significant publications, citations, awards, or measurable impact.
• Artists & Creative Professionals – Musicians, performers, designers, filmmakers, and others with international acclaim.
• Entrepreneurs & Founders – Innovators whose ventures demonstrate originality, national relevance, or broad recognition.
• Athletes & Coaches – Competitors or trainers with international rankings, medals, or leadership roles.
• Business & Industry Leaders – Professionals who have made high-level contributions with documented recognition.

• EB-1A cases require more than credentials — they demand clear evidence of extraordinary ability and a persuasive narrative that connects your work to sustained national or international acclaim. 

• At Kennedy Law, we build cases that combine story and proof, ensuring petitions are both well-documented and compelling.

Common evidence includes:

• Prestigious prizes or awards
• Major media coverage or publications about your work
• Citation metrics, scholarly impact, or industry benchmarks
• Expert letters confirming your original contributions
• Records of high salary or commercial success
• Evidence of exhibitions, showcases, or critical roles