Do the recommendation letters need to be notarized?

Generally, no. For the O-1, recommendation or support letters typically do not need to be notarized. What tends to matter is the content: precise, detailed information about your achievements, signed by experts or authorities who can genuinely attest to your ability.

A well-crafted, specific letter signed by someone with credibility in your field tends to demonstrate authenticity on its own. Notarization is not what gives the document its weight: it is the clarity, accuracy, and standing of the person who signs it.

• Opt for detailed letters with concrete examples of your accomplishments.
• The signatory’s credibility matters more than a notary stamp.
• Consistency with the rest of the petition package reinforces confidence in the overall file.

If any specific guidance applies to your case, it is worth confirming with the official source, USCIS, or a qualified immigration professional. Each petition is evaluated individually, so checking the current guidelines is always a prudent step.

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.