I-140 document checklist

PERM labor certification (if applicable)

Approved PERM Labor Certification (ETA 9089)If it applies2 copiesOriginal certified PERM from DOLOnly if the answer is yes: Does this position require PERM labor certification?EB-2 and EB-3 generally require PERM. EB-1 and NIW do not.
PERM Recruitment EvidenceIf it appliesCopies of job ads, recruitment reportOnly if the answer is yes: Does this position require PERM labor certification?

Evidence from the petitioning employer

Employer Support LetterRequiredDetailed letter describing the position, duties, salary, and commitmentMust be on company letterhead, specify the offered salary at or above prevailing wage, and describe permanent full-time position.
Ability to Pay EvidenceRequiredEmployer tax returns, audited financials, or annual reportEmployer must demonstrate ability to pay the proffered wage from the priority date onward. Submit tax returns (Form 1120 for corps) or audited financials.
Prevailing Wage DeterminationIf it appliesPWD from DOL for the job location and SOC codeOnly if the answer is yes: Does this position require PERM labor certification?

Education, experience, and credentials of the worker

Degree Certificate(s)Required2 copiesBachelor, Master, or Doctorate degree certificatesIf degree is from outside the US, credential evaluation is required.
Academic TranscriptsRequiredOfficial transcripts from all degree-granting institutions
Credential EvaluationIf it appliesUS equivalency evaluation from NACES/AICE memberOnly if the answer is yes: Was your degree earned outside the United States?Must be from a NACES or AICE member agency. Include course-by-course evaluation.
Employment Experience LettersRequiredLetters from current and prior employers verifying experienceEach letter must specify dates of employment, job title, detailed duties, and hours/week. Must be on letterhead and signed.
Professional Licenses/CertificationsIf it appliesState licenses or industry certifications if required by the role
Beneficiary's Tax Returns / W-2sIf it appliesRecent tax returns and W-2s showing US employmentHelpful for proving current employment and compensation.

Additional evidence for extraordinary ability or national interest waiver

Awards/PrizesIf it appliesEvidence of major nationally or internationally recognized awardsOnly if the answer is yes: Is this an EB-1A, EB-1B, or NIW petition?
Publications & CitationsIf it appliesPublished articles, citation index, Google Scholar profileOnly if the answer is yes: Is this an EB-1A, EB-1B, or NIW petition?
Expert Recommendation LettersIf it appliesLetters from independent experts in the fieldOnly if the answer is yes: Is this an EB-1A, EB-1B, or NIW petition?Include 5-8 letters from well-known experts. At least some should be independent (no personal relationship).
Personal Statement / Research PlanIf it appliesDetailed statement of planned work and national interest impactOnly if the answer is yes: Is this an EB-1A, EB-1B, or NIW petition?

Ticks are saved in this browser only. Check the form's own instructions on the forms page — USCIS updates what it wants, and the instructions win.

Document checklist