FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Profile building, the USCIS process and working with your attorney.
Am I eligible?
Most clients come to us with strong careers but gaps in documentation. Book a free profile review and we will give you an honest assessment of where you stand.
How does USCIS decide EB-1A cases?
First, an officer checks whether you meet at least 3 of the 10 criteria. Then, in a final merits review, they decide whether your evidence shows you are among the top of your field. Meeting 3 criteria alone does not guarantee approval.
Why does a coherent strategy matter?
Applicants with similar profiles can receive different outcomes depending on how their record is built. Evidence that tells one clear story is harder to challenge.
How long does it take?
6 to 12 months. Most profiles are petition-ready in about 8.
How much time will I need to put in?
Most of your time goes into intake, while we learn your background. After that we handle sourcing and coordination, and you focus on your day job. We manage almost everything after the initial intake.
How many citations or publications do I need?
There is no fixed number. What matters is how your record compares with others in your subfield at your career stage. Higher-impact venues usually mean fewer papers are needed.
Can I do just publications?
Yes, on the Focused Strategy track. We recommend it only when the rest of your profile is already strong.
Why isn't media available on the Focused track?
Poorly framed media is drawing RFEs. We only include media within Full Strategy, where it fits your overall profile.
Is this legitimate?
Yes. Every achievement in your profile is your own: you write your papers, give your talks and complete your reviews. We find the right opportunities and make sure they add up to a strong case.
Do you file my petition?
A licensed immigration attorney of your choice files it. We build and organize the evidence beforehand.
Do you have attorneys on staff?
Our team includes a former immigration attorney who advises on evidence strategy behind the scenes. Pazega is not a law firm: we do not give legal advice or file petitions. You choose your own attorney.
Can you recommend an attorney?
Yes. We can share names of attorneys our clients have worked with. The choice and the relationship are yours.
Does my family get green cards too?
Yes. If approved, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can apply as dependents.
What if I get an RFE?
An RFE is not a denial. Your attorney responds, and we help gather supporting evidence. USCIS does not accept achievements dated after filing, which is why we build fully before you file.
I've already filed. Can you help?
We can review your record and help identify existing evidence for an RFE response. New achievements can support a future filing.
What are your results?
84% approved without an RFE and 91% after an RFE or NOID. No one can guarantee approval.
How much does it cost?
Full Strategy is a single package fee; Focused Strategy is priced per item. We share exact pricing after your profile review.
Eligibility, sponsorship and the path from O-1A to a green card.
What is the O-1A?
A US work visa for individuals with extraordinary ability. There is no annual cap and no lottery.
Who qualifies?
You need to meet at least 3 of the 8 O-1A criteria, such as awards, published work about you, judging, original contributions or high salary.
Can I apply for the O-1A myself?
No. A US employer or agent must file the petition on your behalf. Your attorney can explain your options.
How long is the O-1A valid?
It is initially granted for up to 3 years and can be extended while your work continues.
How long does profile building take?
Typically 3 to 6 months, depending on where you start.
Can my family come with me?
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 may accompany you on O-3 visas. O-3 holders cannot work in the US.
Should I apply for O-1A or EB-1A?
O-1A is a work visa; EB-1A is a green card with a higher bar. Many clients start with O-1A and use the same evidence toward EB-1A later.
Can I move from O-1A to EB-1A?
Yes. Much of the evidence overlaps, and we plan for both from the start so none of your effort is wasted.
Do you file the petition?
No. Your employer or agent files it through a licensed immigration attorney. We prepare an organized, attorney-ready evidence file.
How much does it cost?
Pricing depends on your starting profile and goals. We share exact pricing after your profile review.
Programs, applications and funding for master's and PhD applicants.
Do you help with master's and PhD applications?
Yes. We guide master's and PhD applicants from choosing a field and shortlisting programs to statements of purpose, recommender briefing, scholarship search, mock interviews and choosing between offers.
Which countries do you support?
We support applications to programs in the US, UK, Canada, Europe and Australia, and we work with applicants from around the world.
What are your graduate admissions results?
We have supported 738 applicants. 81% secured master's admission offers, and 88% were admitted to fully funded PhD programs.
Will you write my statement of purpose?
No. We coach you with multi-round feedback, because committees remember a clear story, told in your own voice.
When should I start preparing?
Start 12 to 18 months ahead if you are still choosing a field, degree or country; 9 to 12 months before your first deadline if you know your goal; and 4 to 6 months ahead if your program list is ready. Single services are available anytime.
Do I need to contact a PhD supervisor first?
Many PhD programs expect it. We research supervisors whose work fits yours and coach you on outreach emails that earn replies.
How much does graduate admissions support cost?
Full tracks are priced as a package, by number of programs for Plan My Route and Polish My Applications, and single services are priced per service. We share exact pricing after your free consultation.
How we work with you.
Do I need an employer to apply?
No. EB-1A is a self-petition, so you can file without an employer sponsor or job offer.
Can you guarantee approval?
No one honestly can. We guarantee the preparation work, in writing.
How long does profile building take?
Usually 6–12 months; many profiles are petition-ready around month 8.
Are you a law firm?
No. We build your profile and evidence strategy. You choose and work with your own immigration attorney for filing.
What does the first consultation cost?
The initial profile review is free and carries no obligation.
Can I work with Pazega from outside the United States?
Yes. We work with clients around the world. Start with a free profile review by emailing visa@pazega.com.