YOUR EB-1A EDGE1. Executive Summary
Start with a powerful one-page summary that immediately establishes your extraordinary ability and lists the evidence you'll present. This sets the tone for your entire petition.
Petition Letter Guide
How to Craft a Powerful EB-1A Petition Letter
Your petition letter is the narrative backbone of your EB-1A case. It must connect your achievements to the 10 EB-1A criteria while building a compelling story of sustained acclaim. This guide shows you how.
The Litigation-Style Outline That Works
Top EB-1A petitions follow a proven structure similar to legal briefs. This approach makes it easy for USCIS adjudicators to follow your argument and see how you meet each requirement.
2. Criteria-by-Criteria Analysis
Address each EB-1A criterion you're claiming in separate sections. For each criterion, state your qualification, provide evidence, and explain why it matters.
3. Evidence Integration
Reference your exhibits throughout the letter. Create a master exhibit list and use consistent citations like "See Exhibit A, pages 15-22."
4. Final Merits Narrative
Conclude with a compelling argument that your overall record demonstrates sustained national or international acclaim, making approval feel inevitable.
Essential Elements for Each Criterion
Awards
Don't just list awards—explain their significance, selection process, and how many people compete. Include prize money, recognition level, and international scope.
Published Material
Show impact through citations, media mentions, and audience size. Explain why your work matters to others in your field and how it advances knowledge.
Critical Role
Demonstrate how your role is essential to your organization's operations. Include organizational impact, revenue, and why only you can fill this position.
High Salary
Provide context for your compensation level. Compare to industry averages and show how your salary reflects exceptional expertise and demand for your skills.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Weak Evidence Connection
Don't just list achievements—explain how each one proves extraordinary ability. Connect every claim to specific exhibits and criteria.
❌ Inconsistent Narrative
Ensure your story flows logically from past achievements to future impact. Avoid contradictions between sections and maintain consistent tone.
❌ Missing Final Merits
Don't assume meeting criteria is enough. Include a strong final merits section that explains why your overall record deserves approval.
Ready to build your petition?
Get Professional Templates and Guidance
Our DIY Kit includes attorney-grade petition letter templates and step-by-step guidance to help you craft a compelling case.