How to respond to an EB-2 NIW RFE questioning the originality of your academic contributions?

A RFE (Request for Evidence) that questions the originality of your academic contributions asks you to demonstrate, with clear evidence, that your work brings novel approaches and relevant results. In the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver), this type of proof helps support the impact of your work.

The first step is to organize documentation that demonstrates the originality and reach of your work. The following tend to help:

• Publications, citations by other authors, and patents that show independent contributions.
• Independent evaluations and expert letters attesting to what is innovative.
• A personal statement explaining the context, the challenges, and the novelty of your work.

Explain how each piece connects to the impact of your work in the academic or technical community, and keep your response precise and transparent. Documents in another language must be accompanied by adequate translations, and it is worth reviewing everything to ensure the RFE questions have been effectively addressed.

Since each case has its own particularities, it is advisable to confirm the scope of the RFE and the updated requirements with the USCIS or with an immigration professional before filing your response.

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Victoria Harper

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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.