Detailed Checklist for EB-1A and EB-2 NIW Applications

Preparing accurate and complete documentation is a key factor that determines the success of your application. This checklist covers all required documents according to USCIS requirements: all documents must be in English, in PDF format, and do not need to be notarized.

Golden Rules When Preparing Documents

  • ✦Mandatory Language: 100% of all documents must be in English.
  • ✦Standard Format: Everything must be submitted as PDF files.
  • ✦Notarization: Documents do not need to be notarized.
1

Passport

Send a PDF file including both sides/pages of the personal information section.

2

Degree Certificates

Provide your highest degrees (Ph.D., Master's, Bachelor's) in English. High school diplomas are not required.

3

Personal Statement

A write-up presenting yourself, your experience, achievements, and career direction — helping your profile stand out and be persuasive to USCIS.

4

Career Summary (CV)

Content should prioritize the future: 30–40% past achievements; 60–70% current plans, goals, and future career direction in the U.S.

5

Research Papers

Upload all papers as PDFs in a separate folder. Name/number the PDF files to match the list in your CV for consistency.

6

Google Scholar Profile

Ensure your Google Scholar profile is entirely in English. Remove papers irrelevant to the field in which you are applying for the Green Card.

7

Grants / Funding

List all relevant grants/funding, including those in the Funding section of your papers. For grants in Vietnam without an accompanying paper, submit a scan of the original grant plus an English translation.

8

Patent (if applicable)

Export the patent as a PDF and include it as a separate document.

9

Journal Editor

Prioritize sending the Certificate if available. If not, take a screenshot of the email confirming your editor work and export to PDF.

10

Peer Reviewer

Compile all evidence into a single PDF file, ensuring images are clear. Prioritize the Certificate; if unavailable, use a screenshot of the confirmation email converted to PDF.

11

Recommendation Letters

Attach recommendation letters if they can be prepared in advance. These are highly valuable for strengthening your petition.

12

Awards / Honors (Optional)

Prioritize official Certificates. If not available, use a screenshot of the email or confirmation document saved as PDF.

Preparing an EB-1A and EB-2 NIW application is a meticulous process requiring precision. Adhering to the three golden rules — English, PDF, consistent presentation — will help your file be processed quickly, logically, and professionally.

Need help preparing your documents? Contact our team.