Product leader is often considered to be trickier for O-1 qualification, but we have numerous examples of success. The key is to demonstrate extraordinary ability through measurable product impact. We focus on the metrics you live by: user growth, revenue generated, market share captured, or shipping novel 0-to-1 products.

Leading a product at a top-tier "unicorn" or a FAANG company is helpful, but it cannot and is not a guarantee to get the O-1. The focus must be on your specific, critical role in that company's success.

Industry engagement, like speaking at "Mind the Product" or "Industry Conference," or authoring articles on product strategy in top tech publications, is highly valuable. You will need credible, senior references (e.g., VPs of Product, CPOs, or VCs) to vouch for your specific impact.

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Isolating your individual contribution: Your primary challenge is extending your credibility beyond the success of your team. 

You will need hard metrics and expert opinion letters to prove that your product vision, prioritization, and leadership were the indispensable ingredients, distinct from the (often brilliant) work of your engineering, design, and marketing counterparts. With guidance, we help aspiring applicants get the proper external recognition—such as product awards, press that quotes you, or speaking invitations—helps illustrate this individual contribution to USCIS.

Establishing the "critical" nature of your role: Unlike a founder, you are typically an employee. Your challenge isn't setting up a board, but proving your role is "critical" or "essential," especially if you don't have a C-suite title. This involves properly defining your position, your direct influence on the company's core product, and ensuring the U.S. employer has a strong petition.

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