What is a ‘certified copy’ of a diploma in the H-1B?

In the H-1B process, a ‘certified copy’ of a diploma is an authenticated copy recognized as a faithful and complete reproduction of the original document. It serves to prove the academic credentials required for the specialty occupation, without the applicant having to give up the original diploma.

To qualify as a ‘certified copy’, the copy is compared against the original and receives a formal attestation from an authorized agent, such as a notary public or the registrar’s office of the issuing institution. That agent declares the copy to be true and identical to the original, giving the authorities confidence that the document has not been altered.

• It is an authenticated copy, not a simple photocopy.
• Authentication is performed by someone with the authority to do so (a notary or the issuing institution).
• It preserves the integrity of the document before official review.

Each agency or institution may have its own guidelines on the accepted format. Before gathering your documents, confirm the latest instructions with USCIS or an immigration specialist to avoid any issues with your case.

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.