USCIS has indicated a significant shift in how it evaluates EB-1A petitions, emphasizing the need for independent, objective evidence over reference letters. This trend has become apparent over the past year, as recent Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs) show that reference letters are increasingly viewed as supplementary rather than primary proof of an applicant’s qualifications.
Key Details:
- USCIS is requesting underlying evidence to support claims made in reference letters, such as citation records and press coverage.
- Letters that lack specific achievements and merely praise the applicant are often disregarded.
- There is heightened scrutiny regarding the independence of letter writers, with officers questioning their objectivity.
- Successful EB-1A petitions now require strong objective evidence, including citations, media recognition, and data demonstrating real-world impact.
This change in focus means that applicants must prioritize concrete evidence of their contributions and influence within their fields, rather than relying solely on endorsements from colleagues or supervisors.
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Source: Michelle Campbell Burns