My country does not require a last name. Can that confuse the USCIS?

In the EB-2 NIW, not having a last name in the traditional sense does not typically confuse USCIS, as long as your information appears clearly and consistently across all forms and supporting documents. What prevents problems is consistency, not the format of your name itself.

The golden rule is to make sure the information you fill in matches exactly what appears on your official documents from your home country. When a field asks for a last name you do not have, follow the specific instructions for that form: in most cases you can indicate it does not apply or enter your name exactly as it appears on your document.

• Fill in all fields to match your official document, without improvising variations.
• Follow each form’s instructions for fields that do not apply to your situation.
• When helpful, attach a brief explanation of the naming conventions of your country.

Always consult the latest official instructions and, if you have any doubts, seek guidance from a qualified professional. Be cautious of anyone who promises quick or guaranteed results: what supports your case is the clarity and consistency of your information.

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.