Immigration Attorney Explains Founder’s EB-1A Visa Journey

Founder’s Long Visa Journey

Kazakhstan-born entrepreneur Ablay Sarmantay secured a US EB-1A approval after facing six visa rejections over five years. He had received five student visa refusals and one tourist visa denial before finally entering the United States with his family. His EB-1A petition was later approved in just 16 days under the extraordinary ability category.

Why EB-1A Is Different

Immigration attorney Mithi Jaiswal explained that EB-1A is different from student or tourist visa applications. It is a self-petition green card category that does not require an employer sponsor or job offer. Applicants must prove strong achievements and show they are among the small percentage at the top of their field.

According to Jaiswal, earlier F-1 or tourist visa refusals do not automatically affect EB-1A eligibility because the legal standards are different. A student visa officer checks whether an applicant may return home, while USCIS reviews whether the person has extraordinary professional achievements.

Lessons For Applicants

Sarmantay’s case highlights how a stronger professional profile, business impact, investment history, and documented achievements can change an immigration outcome. His journey also shows that past visa rejections do not always define future eligibility. Applicants should focus on evidence, proper category selection, and accurate documentation before filing.