Do I need to submit physical diploma originals for the O-1?

Generally, no. At the initial petition stage for the O-1, you typically do not need to submit original physical diplomas. What is usually accepted are authenticated or certified copies of your degrees and relevant certificates, accompanied by an official translation when they are in another language.

That said, it is important to follow the specific instructions from USCIS for your case. In certain situations, the consulate may request original documents for additional verification, so it is a good idea to keep everything organized and in good condition, both in physical and digital format.

• For the petition, authenticated or certified copies usually suffice.
• Official translations are required for documents in another language.
• Keep originals accessible, as they may be requested later.

Since requirements can vary depending on the stage and the consular post, the safest approach is to check the updated guidelines on USCIS and with the consulate before submitting your documents.

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.