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The first employment based classification is the "priority worker" including individuals of extraordinary ability.

This category includes persons with "extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business or athletics."  The Beneficiary must demonstrate "extensive documentation" that the extraordinary ability has received "sustained national or international acclaim."  Evidence includes receipt of a significant one-time achievement—major international award (such as the Nobel Prize) or any three of the following:

Receipt of lesser national or internationally recognized prizes or awards
Membership in an association of the field requiring outstanding achievement as judged by recognized experts
Published material about the alien in professional, major trade publications or other major media
Participation as a judge of the work of others
Original scientific, scholastic, artistic, athletic or business related contributions of major significance
Authorship of scholarly articles in the field
Artistic exhibitions
Performance in leading roles for organizations with distinguished reputations
High salary or remuneration in relation to others in the field
Commercial success in the performing arts as shown by box office receipts or record,
cassette, compact disk or video sales.

This list outlines all acceptable documentation required.  Some of these categories will not relate to the specific extraordinary alien, however, if the individual can qualify in at least three of these categories, then EB-1(1) immigrant status may be approved.

There is a provision that alternative documentation can be submitted if the listed categories do not apply to the particular applicant.  It is important to submit all documentation that can be obtained.  Letters from professional colleagues who are leaders in the field carry significant weight.  Any such letter should be on the letterhead of the institution with which the writer is associated, should state the writer's credentials to make an expert opinion, and if possible, should be accompanied with a curriculum vitae.  It is also useful if the signature on the letter is notarized.