EB-1A Without the Nobel Prize: How to Build Extraordinary Ability Cases for Executives and Entrepreneurs 

The EB-1A visa is often perceived as a category reserved for Nobel Prize winners, world-class athletes, or scientists with groundbreaking research, but as immigration attorney Natalia Fridman made clear in this webinar hosted by Marianella Manzur, that perception is far from the truth. 

This session in Spanish, hosted by Joorney, focused on helping immigration attorneys identify and prepare EB-1A cases for business professionals, executives, and entrepreneurs who may qualify, even without global recognition. 

You can watch the full recording on YouTube or read the written summary below. 

Rethinking Who Qualifies for EB-1A 

Natalia began by addressing one of the most common misconceptions about the EB-1A: 

“Many attorneys think the EB-1A is only for people who win major international awards, but that’s not true. Executives and entrepreneurs can also meet the criteria when we know how to present their achievements properly.” 

She explained that the EB-1A recognizes extraordinary ability in any field, including business, innovation, and entrepreneurship. As long as the attorney can demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim and evidence that the applicant will continue working in their area of expertise in the U.S. 

Recognizing Strong EB-1A Candidates 

When asked how to identify potential EB-1A clients, Natalia emphasized the importance of looking beyond conventional achievements: 

“A good EB-1A candidate doesn’t need to have a famous award. Sometimes, a client’s leadership roles, publications, or influence in their industry are enough — if we know how to highlight them.” 

She recommended that attorneys evaluate their clients’ professional influence, media presence, memberships, and recognition from peers, as these can often satisfy EB-1A criteria that are overlooked in business contexts. 

Natalia also mentioned that industries like technology, consulting, and design frequently produce eligible candidates who are missed simply because attorneys don’t associate those sectors with “extraordinary ability” cases. 

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them 

According to Natalia, one of the biggest errors attorneys make is treating the EB-1A like other business visas: 

“Many lawyers come from handling H-1B, L-1, or E-2 cases and use the same approach. But EB-1A is a completely different mindset — it’s about storytelling and evidence that builds a narrative of excellence.” 

She warned against overloading USCIS officers with excessive documentation and instead encouraged attorneys to focus on quality over quantity. The key is to present evidence that connects clearly to each regulatory criterion and demonstrates the client’s impact in a measurable way. 

The Role of Business Plans in EB-1A Petitions 

Natalia also addressed the role of business plans in EB-1A cases, explaining how they differ from their use in EB-2 NIW petitions: 

“In EB-2 NIW cases, the business plan helps prove national interest and future contributions. In EB-1A, it’s more about reinforcing leadership, innovation, and how the person will continue excelling in their field.” 

She advised that while some attorneys reuse the same plan across visa types, tailoring the business plan for each category, especially to highlight the individual’s continued influence, strengthens the EB-1A case considerably. 

USCIS Trends and Areas of Scrutiny 

Natalia shared her recent experience with adjudications, noting increased scrutiny in certain areas: 

“We’re seeing more RFEs related to the level of impact and the documentation of media coverage. USCIS wants clear, credible evidence that the recognition is significant and not just local.” 

This trend, she noted, underscores the importance of building context for each piece of evidence, explaining why the recognition matters and how it supports the client’s claim of extraordinary ability. 

Final Advice for Attorneys 

As the session came to a close, Natalia offered one piece of advice for attorneys who occasionally receive EB-1A inquiries but may hesitate to take on such cases: 

“Don’t be afraid to explore it. Sometimes, you’ll find extraordinary potential where you least expect it.” 

Key Takeaways for Immigration Attorneys 

• The EB-1A isn’t limited to artists, athletes, or scientists. Business professionals can qualify too. 

• Focus on achievements that demonstrate influence and leadership, not just awards. 

• Structure evidence strategically: Clarity and context matter more than volume. 

• Tailor business plans to the EB-1A narrative, not just reuse NIW versions. 

• Pay attention to USCIS’s current scrutiny of media and recognition evidence.