USCIS Shatters Records With EB-1 Petitions Surge: What It Means for Extraordinary Ability Applicants
- Shan Potts
- Jun 23
- 3 min read
In a dramatic shift reflecting both increased global competition and growing awareness of U.S. immigration opportunities, USCIS has reported a record-breaking surge in EB-1 petitions over the past fiscal year. The EB-1 category—reserved for individuals of extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, and multinational executives—has seen a steep rise in interest, especially from scientists, creatives, and founders hoping to secure a permanent path to the U.S.
The Numbers Speak Volumes
According to recent USCIS data, EB-1 petitions filed in FY2024 rose by over 35% compared to the previous year. This is the largest single-year increase since the category’s creation. While demand is growing across all EB-1 subcategories, the EB-1A (extraordinary ability) segment has seen the sharpest spike, with international researchers, entrepreneurs, and artists leading the charge.
This rise comes at a time when the United States continues to struggle with talent shortages in STEM, AI, and biotech industries—making the EB-1A an increasingly strategic route for employers and self-petitioners alike.
Why the Sudden EB-1 Increase?
Several overlapping factors are driving the surge in EB-1 filings:
1. Post-Pandemic Mobility
As the world recovers from COVID-era restrictions, more professionals are once again open to relocating internationally. The United States, with its research institutions, tech hubs, and entrepreneurial ecosystems, remains a top destination.
2. Increased Awareness of Self-Petitioning Options
Professionals who previously relied on employer sponsorship are discovering that categories like EB-1A and EB-2 NIW allow them to petition independently. Universities, immigration webinars, and professional forums like LinkedIn and ResearchGate are helping spread the word.
3. OPT/F-1 Uncertainty
International graduates in the U.S. on F-1 or OPT visas are increasingly turning to EB-1 as a faster, more secure long-term solution amid green card backlogs in other categories.
4. Premium Processing Availability
The availability of premium processing for EB-1 petitions has made the category more attractive to applicants who can’t afford to wait 12–18 months for adjudication.
5. STEM and Startup Boom
With global momentum in AI, biotechnology, and deep tech, more founders and researchers now qualify under EB-1A criteria, especially as USCIS recognizes a broader range of evidence—including patents, venture capital, and startup impact.
The Flip Side: Increased Scrutiny
While demand is rising, approval rates aren’t keeping pace. USCIS has responded to the influx by tightening review standards, especially in EB-1A cases. Adjudicators now expect stronger
documentation, clearer narratives of influence, and third-party validation that proves sustained national or international acclaim.
In short, volume is up—but so is selectivity.
Applicants who once qualified with publications and conference presentations alone may now require media coverage, industry awards, or documented impact beyond academic circles. This is especially true for younger researchers or creative professionals with unconventional achievements.
What This Means for Applicants
If you're considering the EB-1A path, it's more critical than ever to craft your petition strategically. That means more than just collecting letters of recommendation—it means telling a story about your career trajectory, impact, and influence that aligns with how USCIS evaluates "extraordinary ability."
At Shan Potts Law Offices, we specialize in building strong EB-1A cases for professionals in science, technology, business, and the arts. Our team helps clients frame their accomplishments, organize evidence, and navigate the complex eligibility criteria in ways that resonate with USCIS adjudicators.
Final Thoughts
The EB-1A surge is a double-edged sword: it signals opportunity, but also competition. The good news is that you don’t need a Nobel Prize to qualify—you just need a well-presented case built on the right foundations.
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