@ cicada
I contacted the lawyer when I had 10 papers (3 first authored) and 15 citations. By the time of filing, I had 30 independent citations and got approved. However, I think 20 citations should get you through. To strengthen your credentials, I would also recommend you to review manuscripts for journals. Contact Victoria Chen at wegreened.com for no obligation free evaluation. Trackitt.com is a wonderful website as well. So is hooyou.com