If you think the EB-1A Green Card is only for Nobel Prize winners and Olympic athletes, think again. In September 2024, a delivery practice manager in data analytics proved that with the right evidence and persistence, even a denial from USCIS isn’t the end of the road.

The Case: Data Analytics Pro vs. USCIS

Our story centers on a delivery practice manager at a multi-billion-dollar tech company, specializing in AI and machine learning for big data. She applied for the EB-1A Green Card—the “extraordinary ability” visa reserved for the top tier in business, science, arts, and more. The catch? You have to prove you’re among the best of the best, with sustained national or international acclaim.

USCIS initially denied her petition, saying she didn’t meet at least three of the ten required criteria. But she didn’t back down—she appealed, and the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) took a fresh look.

What Turned the Tide?

The AAO’s review found that the petitioner actually met three key EB-1A Green Card criteria:

1. Judging the Work of Others:
She had served as a judge in her field, evaluating the work of other professionals—an important marker of expertise and recognition.

2. Leading or Critical Roles:
She provided solid evidence of leading and critical roles at major companies, including managing a $50 million portfolio, spearheading a $97 million online learning project, and leading cloud migration efforts that saved her company big money. Letters from superiors and media coverage backed up her claims.

3. High Salary and Remuneration:
Her 2022 earnings ($254,000) far exceeded industry averages, and she also received valuable stock units. The AAO clarified that the comparison should be to the broader field, not just her own company, and her compensation was clearly at the top.

The Lesson: Documentation and Persistence Pay Off

The AAO withdrew the denial and sent the case back for a new decision, ordering a holistic review of her achievements and acclaim. The takeaway? Even if you’re not a household name, you can win an EB-1A Green Card if you document your impact, leadership, and recognition in your field. Here’s the official USCIS appeal decision we analyzed, providing key insights into EB-1A Green Card qualifications [link to PDF].

Key Takeaways for EB-1A Green Card Applicants

Don’t let a denial stop you. If you believe you qualify, appeal and strengthen your evidence.
Showcase your leadership and impact. Letters, media coverage, and project details matter.
Highlight your compensation. High salaries and stock awards can tip the scales.
Understand the criteria. It’s not just about awards—judging, leadership, and pay all count.

Ready to Build Your Own EB-1A Green Card Case?

Need help crafting reference letters or your main petition letter for an EB-1A Green Card or EB-2 NIW? Our expert writers know exactly how to showcase your extraordinary ability and maximize your chances of approval. Get help with your EB-1A Green Card petition today to get started on your path to U.S. immigration success!