top of page

Extraordinary Ability and High-Skill Immigration

EB-1, EB-2 NIW, and O-1 pathways for researchers, founders & experts

Led by US immigration attorney and scientist

Picture7 - globe.png

The United States recognizes professionals whose work contributes to high-impact technology areas. Expertise in fields such as AI and data science, life sciences, semiconductors, energy research, and advanced physics can form the basis for permanent immigration.

​​

Specialized immigration pathways may be available if you: 

  • work in a high-impact or STEM field; 

  • hold an advanced degree; or 

  • have extensive recognition in your field.​

At the same time, visa petitions are seeing increased USCIS scrutiny

USCIS sees thousands of applications generated by templates that all look alike, with generic descriptions of the applicant's expertise and vague connections to national interest. ​In today's immigration climate, these standardized, template-driven application are not enough.

To succeed, more thorough and particularized approaches are key​​​

We understand research, publications, patents, and industry results, because we're scientists ourselves. Our technical experience allows us to more credibly explain your expertise and contributions in detail, and tie it to USCIS's specific legal criteria.

Our Approach

We don't use template forms, and we take the time to talk with you and understand the specifics of your case. We'll work closely with you to create clear narratives around your expertise and contributions, providing significant detail to reduce risks of subsequent Requests for Evidence (RFEs).

Lucas Koziol holds a PhD in physical chemistry from the University of Southern California. He is the author of over 25 peer-reviewed scientific publications and an inventor on four patents.

As a scientist at a national lab and major energy company, he worked with scientists from across the globe. He attended law school at the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, graduating in the top 5% of his class. An immigrant himself, he uses his background to help clients pursue their immigration goals.

Selected Visa Pathways​

EB-1 is the first-preferenced employment-based visa category. It is well-suited for researchers with influential publications and citations, industry scientists with patents or recognized technical leadership, and startup founders with recognized accomplishments.

EB-1

  • Extraordinary Ability

  • Outstanding Professors and Researchers

  • Certain Multinational Managers and Executives

EB-2 with National Interest Waiver

EB-2 allows those with an advanced degree to qualify for permanent residence, including in STEM fields. An "advanced degree" is generally a master's or higher OR, equivalently, a bechelor's degree followed by at least five years of progressive experience in the specialty.

  • Professionals Holding an Advanced Degree

  • Exceptional Ability

O-1

The O-1 visa is for individuals with a demonstrated extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics. It is often used by founders who are launching or scaling US companies.

  • Individuals with Extraordinary Ability

  • Individuals with Extraordinary Achievement

Other visa categories

  • L-1 (intra-company transfer)

  • E (treaty traders or investors)

  • EB-5 (immigrant investors)

  • H-1B (specialty occupation work visa)

  • B-1 (business visitor)

Contact Us!

Free 15-Minute Consultation

Copyright 2025 Bridgewater Immigration Law LLC

bottom of page