Who Qualifies?

The applicant must either meet the educational requirements, or demonstrate exceptional abilities in science, arts, or business.

To be eligible for this visa, the applicant must submit academic records demonstrating one of the following:

  1. A master’s degree or higher from an accredited U.S. institution or its foreign equivalent; or
  2. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. institution or its foreign equivalent, plus at least five years of progressive work experience in the field.

The applicant must either meet the educational requirements, or demonstrate exceptional abilities in science, arts, or business. They must also show that their work will benefit the U.S. national economy, cultural or educational interests, or welfare. 

To prove exceptional ability, the applicant must meet at least three of the following six criteria:

  1. Documentation of a degree, diploma, certificate, or similar award from a college, university, or other institution of learning relating to the area of exceptional ability;
  2. Written evidence from current or former employers demonstrating at least 10 years of full-time experience in the applicant’s field;
  3. A license or certification required to practice the profession or occupation;
  4. Evidence that the applicant has commanded a salary or remuneration for services that demonstrates exceptional ability, compared to others in the field;
  5. Membership in professional associations;
  6. Recognition for achievements and significant contributions to the field by peers, government entities, or professional or business organizations.