My newspaper articles are behind a paywall. What now?

An article behind a paywall does not lose its value as evidence for EB-1. Press coverage about you remains a relevant proof of recognition; the challenge is simply presenting it in an accessible and verifiable way for the officer reviewing your case.

The safest approach is to request an official copy directly from the publication. Many outlets provide article files for documentation purposes, whether through a formal request or via their public relations department. That copy can be included in your petition package along with identifying details (title, author, date, and where it was published).

If copyright restrictions apply, include an explanation of the access barrier and how the content can be independently verified. Another option is to use archived versions, such as those from digital libraries or online archiving services (for example, the Wayback Machine), always confirming the authenticity of the material.

The golden rule is legitimacy: immigration authorities expect genuine and verifiable documents. If you are unsure about the accepted format, check the updated guidance on the USCIS website and consider reviewing your petition package with 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.