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

An RFE (Request for Evidence) that questions the originality of your academic work in the EB-2 NIW is a request for you to reinforce, with evidence, that your output is original and relevant. The response must be detailed, organized, and consistent with the documentation already submitted.

Start by gathering everything that proves your authorship and the reach of your work:

• Copies of publications, with submission and peer-review data.
• Records of citations and mentions in recognized outlets.
• Letters from experts attesting to the originality and impact.
• Preliminary versions and developments that show the evolution of your ideas.

Next, write an explanatory cover letter describing the creative process, the methodologies, and the recognition obtained, connecting each point to the attached evidence. A clear narrative helps the officer see the consistency between what you claim and what you present.

Review everything carefully before submitting and, whenever possible, seek specialized guidance and check the latest instructions from USCIS. A well-supported response is the best way to clarify the reviewing officer’s concerns.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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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.