Checklist: The Ultimate EB-1A Document Submission Package
You've written the arguments and gathered the evidence. This final checklist is your pre-flight inspection. Use it to ensure every form, signature, and exhibit is present and correctly organized for a smooth and professional submission.
Category 1: Core USCIS Forms
These are the non-negotiable government forms that initiate your case. Double-check the latest version on the USCIS website before filing.
- Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker: Filled out completely. Pay close attention to every field. Crucially, ensure you have signed it in the correct location.
- Filing Fees: Correct payment amount included, payable to the "U.S. Department of Homeland Security". Check the USCIS website for the current fee.
- Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative: Only required if an attorney is filing on your behalf.
Category 2: The Narrative Framework
These documents tell your story and guide the adjudicator through your evidence.
- The EB-1A Petition Letter: Your comprehensive legal and narrative argument. Should include your Master Exhibit List. (See our guide on crafting this letter).
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically 5-8 letters from experts in your field. These should be included as exhibits and referenced in your petition letter.
Category 3: The Evidence Portfolio
This is the proof backing up every claim in your petition letter. Ensure each piece of evidence is clearly labeled as an exhibit that corresponds to your Master Exhibit List.
- Evidence for Prizes or Awards: Copies of award certificates, letters of congratulations, press releases about the award.
- Evidence for Memberships: Letters from the association, membership cards, website screenshots showing membership criteria.
- ...and so on for all other evidence types...
Category 4: Personal Supporting Documents
These documents establish your identity and background.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume: A current and detailed version.
- Passport: A copy of your current passport's biographical page.
- Visa History: Copies of any current or past U.S. visas, I-94 records, and approval notices (e.g., for O-1, H-1B).
- Educational Credentials: Copies of your diplomas and transcripts (especially for advanced degrees).
The Final Sanity Check
Before you combine everything into your final PDF, do one last review:
- ✓ Do the exhibit numbers in your petition letter perfectly match the labels on your evidence?
- ✓ Is every document legible and scanned clearly?
- ✓ Is your final, combined PDF file ordered correctly according to your exhibit list?
- ✓ Have you signed the I-140 form? This is a common reason for rejection!