Do recommendation letters need to be on letterhead for the O-1?

There is no formal requirement that recommendation letters for the O-1 be on letterhead. What USCIS evaluates is the credibility and content of each letter: who signs it, that person’s authority in the field, and how concretely it describes the candidate’s relevance and expertise.

That said, using the official letterhead of the signing person’s institution or company is generally a good practice. It reinforces formality and helps identify the origin of the document, lending more authenticity to the overall package. It is a common-sense recommendation, not a requirement.

More important than format is substance. A strong letter clearly identifies the author, explains how they know your work, and points to specific examples of contributions and recognition rather than offering generic praise. Those details are what give the evidence its weight.

Because the review is conducted on a case-by-case basis, it is worth checking the latest guidance on the official source (USCIS) and, when possible, having the letters reviewed by a specialist before assembling the petition.

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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.