ALIENS OF EXTRAORDINARY ABILITY
Extraordinary ability is defined as a level of expertise indicating that the individual is one of those few who have risen to the top of the field of endeavor.
Texas A&M University may file in accordance with Texas A&M University System Regulation
33.99.09. 3.3.1 a petition for extraordinary ability for a foreign national who qualifies for such category. This petition is directly filed with the USCIS without the need of obtaining a prior alien labor certification. In order to qualify for this immigrant visa category, the foreign national must submit the following documentation:
1.
Alien must demonstrate sustained or international acclaim and that he/her achievements have been recognized in his/her field of expertise. Evidence shall include evidence of a one-time achievement; a major international recognized award (e.g. Nobel Prize). If beneficiary is not the recipient of such award then documentation of any three of the following:
a.
Receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards;
b.
Membership in associations in the academic field, which require outstanding achievements of their members, as judged by recognized national or international experts;
c.
Published material in professional publications written by others about the alien's work in the academic field;
d.
Participation on a panel, or individually, as the judge of the work of others in the same or an allied academic field;
e.
Original scientific or scholarly research contributions of major significance to the academic field;
f.
Authorship of scholarly books or articles, in scholarly journals with international circulation, in the academic field;
g.
Display of his or her work in the field at artistic exhibitions or showcases in more than one country;
h.
Performance in a lead, starring, or critical role for organizations or establishments with distinguished reputations;
i.
High salary or remuneration for services in relation to others, and;
j.
Commercial success in the performing arts.
Comparable evidence may also be submitted if the above standards do not readily apply (expert opinion letters attesting to the beneficiary's abilities). Note that the submission of evidence of 3 of the 10 categories only establishes the initial evidence but USCIS may require additional evidence.
2.
If TAMU is to support this petition per System Regulation
33.99.09. 3.3.1, letter from the Department Head of the employing department stating that the university will employ the foreign national in the area of expertise.
