To request a green card under this category you filed an immigrant visa petition (Form I-140) with the USCIS along with evidence of your extraordinary ability.

What is extraordinary ability?

Extraordinary Ability means a level of expertise indicating that an individual is one of that small percentage who have risen to the very top of their field of endeavor.

How do I prove that a I meet this lofty standard of "extraordinary ability"?

The petition must be accompanied by evidence of national or international acclaim and that your achievements have been recognized in your field of expertise.

What sort of evidence should I provide to prove this?

Evidence of a one-time achievement can prove extraordinary ability. If you have received a major international award like the Nobel Prize, the A. M. Turing Award, an Academy Award or any prize at this level, it should be sufficient evidence.

Is there another way to qualify if I do not have such a prestigious award?

If such an award has not been received, at least three types of evidence from the following list must be submitted:

• receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in the field of endeavor
• membership in association of endeavor which require outstanding achievements of their members, as judged by recognized national or international experts in their fields
• published material in professional or major trade publications or major media about the alien and relating to the alien's work in the field of endeavor
• evidence of participation, on a panel or individually, as a judge of the work of others in the same or an allied field of specialization
• original scientific, scholarly, or artistic contributions of major significance in the field of endeavor
• authorship of scholarly articles in the field, in professional journals or other major media
• display of the alien's work in the field at artistic exhibitions or showcases in more than one country
• performance in a lead, starring, or critical role for organizations or establishments with distinguished reputations
• receiving a high salary or other significantly high remuneration for services in relation to others
• commercial successes in the performing arts, as shown by the box office receipts or record, cassette, compact disc, or video sales

Comparable evidence may be submitted to establish eligibility in certain circumstances.

Is labor certification required for this category?

No. This is a petition for the first preference employment-based category and all such petitions are exempted from labor certification

Do I require any type of sponsorship?

No offer of employment is required, but you must provide clear evidence that you are coming to the United States to continue work in your area of expertise, such as prearranged employment or contractual commitments. In their absence, a statement detailing how you intend to continue your work in the United States may be accepted.

Can my extraordinary ability be in any field?

No. You are limited to sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.