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I received an endorsement from my country’s minister of culture. Does it count for the EB-1?

In the EB-1, an endorsement from a minister of culture is a valuable asset, but it is not enough on its own: USCIS evaluates evidence as a whole. Pair the letter with awards, publications, and concrete accomplishments to strengthen your case.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 21, 2026
1 min read
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Yes, it counts as an element in your favor, though it is rarely enough on its own. In the EB-1, an endorsement from a recognized authority, such as your country’s minister of culture, helps reinforce the narrative that your work has relevance and impact. It adds credibility to the overall picture.

The key is understanding how this type of letter is read. USCIS evaluates evidence holistically, meaning as a whole. A strong letter bolsters your case, but it typically needs to be accompanied by concrete proof of your accomplishments.

To get the most out of the endorsement, it helps if it:

  • Is specific about what you achieved, not merely complimentary.
  • Explains why the authority is qualified to assess your work.
  • Comes alongside awards, publications, and other forms of recognition.
  • Aligns with the rest of the petition, without contradictions.

Since each case is reviewed individually, the best approach is to fit this letter into a broader strategy of proof. To understand the weight given to this type of evidence, review the official USCIS guidelines or consult a specialist.

Learn more about EB-1

Category
EB-1 Green Card (1st priority)
Requirement
Extraordinary ability
Self-petition
Allowed (no sponsor needed)
Processing
6-18 months
All about EB-1

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

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.

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I received an endorsement from my country’s minister of culture. Does it count for the EB-1?

In the EB-1, an endorsement from a minister of culture is a valuable asset, but it is not enough on its own: USCIS evaluates evidence as a whole. Pair the letter with awards, publications, and concrete accomplishments to strengthen your case.

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