The EB1A visa allows individuals with extraordinary abilities to gain permanent U.S. residency. However, applying and meeting the EB1A criteria can involve many steps and take time. Baden Bower, a leading PR firm, has found a way to help applicants improve their EB1A petitions through strategic media coverage. This strategy strengthens applications and can even shorten processing times, giving applicants a real advantage.
Breaking Down the EB1A Visa Process
To begin the EB1A application process, applicants must submit Form I-140, the Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). A unique feature of this visa is that applicants do not need an employer to sponsor them—they can apply independently. However, the real challenge is proving extraordinary ability through solid evidence to meet the demanding EB1A qualification standards.
“Many talented people struggle to showcase their achievements to immigration officers effectively,” says AJ Ignacio, CEO of Baden Bower. “We create PR campaigns that make sure these accomplishments are featured in a way that matches USCIS standards.“
For those already living in the U.S., Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) can be submitted along with the I-140, as long as visa numbers are available. Consular processing takes place after the I-140 is approved for applicants living abroad.
Baden Bower focuses on securing media placements that meet USCIS’ EB1A visa requirements. This gives applicants an extra layer of credibility by showing third-party endorsements of their skills. This method benefits applicants who do not have traditional recognition but have made significant contributions in their field.
Speeding Up Processing Times with PR
The typical processing time for I-140 forms ranges from eight to fourteen months, with I-485 forms adding another six months. Baden Bower’s PR tactics can help move this timeline along more quickly.
“We get the right media coverage at the right time, creating a sense of urgency around the applicant’s achievements. This often leads to faster processing, as USCIS officers see the immediate value the applicant can bring to the U.S.,” Ignacio says.
USCIS offers a premium processing option for those in a real rush, which promises a decision on I-140 petitions within 15 business days for $2,500. Baden Bower’s media strategy works well with this by making sure the applicant’s story is backed up with impressive media mentions.
Filling Gaps in the Application with Media Coverage
One of the biggest problems for EB1A applicants is meeting the evidence requirements. USCIS expects proof of extraordinary ability, and applicants must meet at least three of the ten listed criteria, including having “published material about the individual in major publications.”
This is where Baden Bower excels. “We find the best publications in the applicant’s field and write pieces highlighting their accomplishments. This checks USCIS’ boxes and raises the applicant’s profile within their industry,“ says Ignacio.
Media coverage can fill those gaps for those who do not have traditional honors like major awards. Baden Bower’s PR strategies create compelling stories that can compensate for missing qualifications.
Improving Success Rates with a Well-Rounded PR Plan
Although the EB1A process can take anywhere from eight to thirty-seven months, a strong PR strategy can improve an applicant’s chances of success. Baden Bower offers a complete PR plan that aligns with each applicant’s strengths.
“We create a strategy that includes op-eds, interviews, and feature articles. This helps paint a complete picture of the applicant’s skills and positions them as leaders in their field,“ says Ignacio.
When USCIS reviews an application, they are presented with a clear and persuasive narrative backed by respected media sources. This layered technique strengthens the case and boosts the odds of approval.
With increasing competition for EB1A visas, Baden Bower’s PR strategies offer applicants a way to stand out. Combining legal knowledge with targeted media campaigns allows future U.S. residents to present a convincing case for their exceptional abilities and contributions.
