Can I use ‘confidential letters’ in my EB-2 NIW petition?

Yes, it is possible. In an EB-2 NIW petition, you can use confidential letters (letters submitted directly to USCIS by the recommender, without passing through your hands). Some practitioners prefer this format because it can reinforce the perception of impartiality and authenticity of the testimony.

The key point, however, is not the confidentiality itself, but the quality of the content. A confidential letter only helps if it provides detailed, well-grounded information about who wrote it, their authority in the field, and why your work has merit and national importance. Confidentiality is a format option, not a guarantee of weight.

• The letter can go directly to USCIS, without passing through you.
• The value lies in the substance, not in the fact that it is confidential.
• Clearly identify the author and support every claim with specifics.

In short, whether confidential or not, the letters must be solid and verifiable. It is worth consulting a specialist to determine when this format makes sense and how to combine it with the rest of your evidence.

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.