Do recommendation letters need to be notarized?

The O visa is intended for individuals who possess extraordinary abilities in fields such as science, arts, education, business, or athletics, and supporting documentation, such as recommendation letters, is essential to prove this expertise. These letters help demonstrate the candidate”s recognition and international or national relevance in their area of performance.

Regarding the notarization of recommendation letters, it is important to clarify that, generally, there is no specific requirement from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that mandates the notarization of these documents. The main focus is that the letters are clearly written, contain detailed information about the candidate”s experience and competence, and are signed by specialists who know their work. It is important that these letters preferably come on letterhead and include information that attests to the credibility of the recommenders, such as the position they hold in the institution or field of expertise.

Although notarization is not mandatory, some applicants choose this additional procedure as a way to reinforce the authenticity of the documents. However, caution is advised: it is always essential to follow the specific guidelines established in the official USCIS instructions, seek updated information, and, if necessary, consult immigration professionals to avoid setbacks or complications in the process.

Remember the importance of following the current immigration legislation and seeking reliable sources of information, avoiding falling for easy promises or dubious practices that guarantee results. The rules may change and each case has particularities; therefore, careful monitoring of the regulations and understanding the requirements for the O visa are essential for organizing a consistent and secure process.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.