Our Client: Sura Kılıç
Our client, Sura Kılıç, is a distinguished researcher with a doctoral degree and remarkable international achievements in academia. Seeking to advance her research on a global scale, she chose Grape Law for her EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) application. As an assistant professor in interior architecture, Ms. Kılıç has established herself through significant academic publications, citations, editorial work, and innovative projects, including LEED-certified sustainable building designs. The EB-1A category, designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities, presented the ideal pathway for her exceptional achievements and future potential.
EB-1A Process and Strategic Planning
The EB-1A category stands as one of the most prestigious immigration options available to professionals with extraordinary abilities. Under this category, applicants must meet at least three out of ten specified criteria. Through our comprehensive assessment, the Grape Law team identified that Ms. Kılıç successfully met seven criteria, substantially exceeding the minimum requirement.
“One day while researching online, I saw a statement saying ‘PhD graduates can get Green Cards.’ When I looked into it, I learned about EB-1A. I consulted with many law firms and filled out forms. You were one of them. I now recommend you to everyone because you work with incredible attention to detail.”
- Sura Kılıç
Our initial evaluation involved a thorough review of Ms. Kılıç’s academic portfolio, with meticulous planning for documenting each criterion. We systematically assessed her academic publications, peer review work, field contributions, critical roles, high-level income, and media coverage. The experienced team at Grape Law carefully addressed technical aspects such as peer review documentation, field contribution evidence, and critical role verification.
The eight-month preparation process involved extensive documentation of each criterion according to USCIS standards. This detailed preparation and strategic planning proved crucial, leading to approval without any requests for additional evidence.
Application Process and Academic Career Development
The EB-1A application consists of two stages: I-140 (immigrant worker petition) and I-485 (adjustment of status). Following her entry to the U.S. on a B1/B2 visa, we initiated Ms. Kılıç’s application process. Opting for premium processing for the I-140 stage, we submitted a comprehensive application to USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services). The first stage received remarkably swift approval in just five days, without any requests for additional evidence. The I-485 application continues to progress smoothly.
The successful I-140 approval marked a significant milestone in Ms. Kılıç’s professional journey. This achievement enables her to expand her research scope and contribute to her field on an international scale, while also paving the way for future Turkish academics in global research communities.
Working with Grape Law
Sura Kılıç’s success story exemplifies the vital role of expert guidance in specialized immigration cases. Her experience demonstrates how proper legal support can transform academic excellence into immigration success.
At Grape Law, we invest time in understanding each client’s unique narrative and aspirations. As with Ms. Kılıç’s case, we meticulously prepare applications that effectively showcase our clients’ achievements and potential.
Helping our clients achieve their professional goals in the U.S. is more than just our work – it’s our passion. Ms. Kılıç’s story stands as a testament to Grape Law’s commitment to providing tailored immigration solutions for academics and researchers.