USCIS requested a ‘valid passport’ at the consulate. But not for the I-140, right?

In short, you are correct: a valid passport is not a document required for the I-140 petition. Each stage of the immigration process has its own requirements, and the documents vary depending on the phase.

The I-140 is the petition that classifies you as an immigrant worker and focuses on proving your qualifications and eligibility in the EB-1 category. At this stage, the emphasis is on merit-based evidence, not on the passport.

The valid passport becomes essential later, at the consular stage: once the petition is approved, it is required for the consulate interview and for the issuance of the immigrant visa, ensuring your identification and travel information are in order.

Since documentary requirements can be updated, it is worth checking the official checklist for each stage at USCIS and at the consulate, or working with an immigration professional to organize what is needed at each point in the process.

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.