Are scanned and printed documents accepted, or do they need to be originals?

It depends on the stage. For EB-2 NIW, USCIS generally accepts legible copies, including scanned and printed versions, in most of the initial phases of the process. In other words, when assembling your petition package, you typically work with copies.

This does not apply to every situation. In specific circumstances, the officer may require the original document or a certified copy, for example:

• During interviews, when applicable.
• When a question arises about the authenticity of a document.
• When the form instructions explicitly request the original.

For that reason, the recommendation is to keep the originals of essential documents and have them readily available to present if requested.

Because requirements can vary by case and change over time, it is worth checking the updated instructions from the forms and USCIS, or consulting a specialist, before submitting your documentation.

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.