I received an RFE questioning whether my award is truly national. Should I seek an official statement?

Yes, seeking an official statement is usually a good strategy. When an RFE (Request for Evidence) questions whether your award has a national character, the goal is to confirm that the recognition extends beyond a regional or local prize – something important in an EB-1 petition.

In this scenario, documentation that formally attests to the award’s reach helps address the inquiry. The following tend to strengthen your response:

• A letter or statement from the institution that granted the award confirming its national scope.
• Materials demonstrating the breadth and reputation of the award.
• Evidence of how the award is recognized within your field.

The key factors are clarity and the source of the evidence. Official, authenticated documents directly tied to the awarding institution tend to carry more weight than generic statements. A well-organized RFE response that directly addresses the specific concern raised is generally more persuasive.

Since each case is evaluated individually, it is worth reviewing the latest USCIS guidance and, if possible, preparing your RFE response with the support of a specialist.

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.