Are recommendation letters in Portuguese valid for EB-1?

Yes. Recommendation letters written in Portuguese can be used in an EB-1 petition, provided they are accompanied by a certified English translation. The original language does not disqualify the document; what matters is that a faithful English version reaches the reviewing authorities.

The translation must be prepared by a certified translator or a specialized firm, preserving technical terminology and the intent of the text. This care prevents misunderstandings during evaluation and keeps the letter’s value as evidence of your work’s impact and relevance fully intact.

• Submit the original Portuguese document together with the certified translation.
• Ensure the translation accurately reflects the technical content.
• Keep all documents consistent with one another.

Because certification requirements can vary depending on the stage of the process, it is worth checking the latest guidance from USCIS or the consulate and, if needed, consulting an experienced professional.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.