EB1 Visa Success Story: Jen’s Background and Career Journey

Hi! I’m Jen – most recently I’m from New Zealand, but I am originally from England and definitely do still enjoy a cup of tea (Earl Grey, please). I’ve spent the past few years working in film.

Currently I’m working as an animation coordinator at the Academy Award–winning Weta Digital, and before that I worked in the editorial department for Peter Jackson’s The Hobbit trilogy and Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement’s vampire mockumentary What We Do in the Shadows.

This level of creative contribution is often central to qualifying for the EB1 extraordinary ability visa.
Learn more about the category here: EB1 Extraordinary Ability Green Card Overview.

What Sparked Her Interest in Moving to the United States

I’ve not lived in the US before.

The pragmatic answer is that I felt like I’d already achieved all I could in my career here in New Zealand – I’d spend my day working on The Hobbit, then in the evening I’d hop over and work with comedians I’m a huge fan of for What We Do in the Shadows.

A more whimsical answer is that all of the books I was reading at the time had authors who lived or had lived in San Francisco – Alan Watts (The Wisdom of Insecurity) and Ed Catmull (Creativity Inc). I followed those signs and hopped on a plane in search of adventure.

As soon as my feet hit that San Franciscan pavement, I immediately felt at home.

When employers were interested but unwilling to sponsor a work visa, I decided to petition for a visa for myself.

Beginning the EB1 Visa Petition Process

I don’t think giving up was an option. I was very thankful to have Chris and his team guide me through the legalese, and I was happy to slightly fulfill one of my childhood dreams of being a lawyer by crafting some of the arguments myself.

At times I was frustrated with the timeline of assembling the case, but looking back, considering what was achieved, it could not have gone smoother. Thank you!

To better understand this visa type, visit the official USCIS page for extraordinary ability applicants: USCIS EB-1 Overview.

Working with Attorney Chris M. Ingram and His Team

A very positive relationship! I was always able to send through extra thoughts and queries to Chris and his team. All dealings were thoughtful, polite, and prompt.

The Moment She Learned She Was Approved

Because of the time difference between New Zealand and the United States, I was sleeping when Leslee, Lindsey, Kosta, and Chris called with the news – a fantastic phone call to groggily wake up to!

Obviously, the reaction was a big “YAY!” – and I celebrated by booking my flight back.

What Jen Looks Forward to in the United States

New adventures and new opportunities! I feel it’s definitely going to benefit my career – and I’m looking forward to not having a restricted Netflix selection, too.

What She Will Miss About New Zealand

Kiwi ingenuity and hospitality – I’ve often had strangers offer me a lift home in the rain. I’m not saying that won’t happen in the U.S., but I’ll probably need to be a little more cautious. Kiwis are absolutely lovely people, and I know I will always be welcome back.

Jen’s Advice to Future EB1 Applicants

Keep on keeping on! If you’re in the EB1 process, that’s really all you can do. Don’t underestimate yourself or your case. With thought, effort, and Chris and his team’s help, you too can go on an adventure.

You may also want to explore related visa options such as the O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa or the NIW Green Card Pathway.

Update: “I Have My Green Card!”

“VERY EXCITING NEWS – I have my Green Card in my hands!! The FedEx parcel arrived safe and sound this morning.

Thank you so much for all of your hard work on my case – I really, really appreciate it!

I’m so excited to be (legally) pursuing this new life!

Again – a huge THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart.

American best,
Jen”

Ready to Start Your EB1 or O-1 Journey?

If Jen’s story inspires you, your own extraordinary ability visa approval may be closer than you think.

Book your consultation today and explore the strongest U.S. immigration pathways for your career.