A Journey of Persistence, Self-Belief, and the Power of Creative Work: How I Got My EB1 Artist Green Card

Nimisha Doongarwal with her Visa restrictions

Life on a Visa: The Frustration of Waiting

For nearly 16 years, I lived in the U.S. on a visa. I had built a life here—earned degrees, worked in tech, paid taxes, contributed in every way possible. And yet, my future was never secure. The green card process under the EB2 category was painfully slow. Based on estimates, I wouldn’t receive mine until I was in my 70s.

Being on a visa was incredibly limiting. I could only work for the employer who sponsored my H1B. I wasn’t legally allowed to sell my artwork or exhibit in galleries. For someone with a deep creative pull, it was heartbreaking. I dreamed of being a full-time artist, but between legal restrictions and financial limitations, that dream seemed so far out of reach.

Discovering the EB1 Artist Green Card

One day, a friend told me about the O1 artist visa. But even that route was complicated. It only allowed me to work as an artist—not in tech—and had its own long processing times. Then I heard about the EB1 artist green card for individuals with extraordinary ability. Curious, I spoke to an immigration lawyer.

What I learned was terrifying!!

To even qualify, I needed over 25 publications in top-tier magazines, exhibitions at respected museums and galleries, and 15+ strong letters of recommendation. On top of that, the EB1 required me to show sustained national or international acclaim. I had to prove that I had extraordinary ability in the arts through a combination of:

• Prestigious exhibitions

• High-profile publications

• Awards or honors that demonstrated recognition in my field

  
  

And even then, nothing was guaranteed. It felt overwhelming, if not impossible. All this when I didn't even come from an arts background.

The Moment I Almost Gave Up

I almost closed the door on the idea. I told myself it was too much. That it wasn’t realistic. But deep down, I knew I had to at least try. I couldn’t accept a life where I was constantly restricted. I needed to find a way to work freely, as an artist.

So I made a quiet promise to myself: I’ll find a way. No matter what.

Nimisha Doongarwal's Mixed Media Art on Art Seen Magazine's cover page

The Climb: One Step at a Time

I started from scratch. I didn’t have big-name exhibitions or a list of press features. But I put myself out there. I started applying everywhere, submitting to publications, finding open calls, and building my practice day by day.

My first major break came when I was featured in Forbes. That was the beginning. From there, more opportunities followed—but not without rejection, delays, and a lot of self-doubt.

Every time I sent something new to my lawyer, I was told: “This isn’t good enough.” “This may not count.” “We still need more.” It was exhausting.

But I kept going. I had no other choice.

Nimisha Doongarwal at her Solo show in Oakland

When the World Started Saying Yes

For nearly three years, I juggled working a full-time job while building my art career from the ground up. I researched, applied, created, failed, and tried again. Most of what I attempted had a 5% success rate. That meant every win was hard-earned.

Eventually, I pulled together enough material to resubmit to my lawyer. This time, his response was different:

“We can work with this. Still no guarantees.”

It wasn’t a yes, but it was hope. And that meant everything.

One of the hardest next step was asking for letters of recommendation. I remember thinking, Why would anyone take the time to write one for me? I was so overwhelmed by the thought.

But something beautiful happened. After three years of building my career, forming genuine relationships, and sharing my work with integrity, people did step forward. People I deeply admired. People I never thought would notice me.

Presidents of major art organizations, respected curators, and even the curator at San Francisco International Airport, all offered to write on my behalf. Their words moved me. Their generosity reminded me: when you lead with sincerity, people respond.

You just have to be kind, and not be afraid to ask.

Nimisha Doongarwal Solo show at San Francisco International Airport

What I Learned About Art, Self-Worth, and Belonging

Looking back, I realize how much I grew, not just as an artist, but as a person. The EB1 journey taught me:

• How to manage time with extreme discipline

• How to handle rejection without letting it define you

• The power of persistence and consistency

• That failing doesn’t mean you stop, it means you start again, wiser

• Create even when no one is watching

  
  

I still experience self-doubt. I still get rejections. But now I know I can stand back up every time.

Nimisha Doongarwal at her Solo Show at Gallery Route One

Today, I’m Free

Today, I hold an EB1 green card and call myself a full-time artist. I can exhibit, sell, and create without restriction. I’m no longer stuck choosing between my creative work and my legal status.

It took years, and it wasn’t easy, but it was possible.

So is everything in life.... you just have to want it enough

Are You on a Similar Path?

If you're an artist, creative, or immigrant struggling with limitations, please know, you're not alone. And it's not impossible.

If this story moved you or felt familiar in any way, I’d love to stay connected.

💌 Join my newsletter for reflections, creative tips, exhibition news, and stories like this one: www.nimishart.com/#subscribe  Check my artworks and available works at www.nimishart.com/shop 

📬 You can also reach out directly at nimishart2017@gmail or IG: @nimishart.

I’m always happy to talk about the EB1 process, life as an artist, or anything you’re navigating.

Your story matters. Your work matters. And there is a way forward.

— Nimisha