My EB1A Application Journey: A DIY Guide for Friends

Recently, I submitted my EB1A application, and now I have some time to reflect on and share my experience with the NIW process. I hope this detailed guide will be helpful for friends preparing their own applications. 🌟

Background

My journey began with a PERM approval in January 2025. However, I was contemplating a job change, which led me to research the USCIS website. I discovered that I could self-sponsor via NIW (National Interest Waiver) and EB1A, even amidst the challenges the U.S. immigration system presents today. At the time of application, I held a Ph.D. with over six years of experience, more than ten publications, and over a hundred citations.

Application Timeline

January 2025

• January 20: I browsed XHS and Reddit and found many DIY experience posts. Huge thanks to contributors like andreychemist, @沙粒, and oscar for their sample petitions. Their insights helped me kickstart my application. I read the official policies and the Matter of Dhanasar case to create an outline.
• January 25: I reached out to four recommenders and my friend helped me find three more, ending up with five independent recommenders. I submitted only four letters initially and provided the fifth during the RFE stage, which proved to be effective. Most letters arrived within one to two weeks.

February 2025

• February 1-14: I focused on writing my personal letter (PL) while researching the three prongs for application requirements. I struggled with ADHD during weekdays, but I utilized GPT and Gemini with resources from XHS and Reddit to assist in the writing process. During the last two days, I added all necessary exhibits and used a final checklist for review. I even skipped Valentine’s dinner on February 14 to complete my draft. Talk about romance! 💌
• February 15-17: I filled out the forms, printed, and mailed my application along with the required payment.
• February 19: My application was received, marking the beginning of the processing period.

March 2025

• March 18: I received a Request for Evidence (RFE) that seemed mismatched. They questioned my use of pronouns and the validity of prongs one and three. I was perplexed and set it aside for a month.

April 2025

• April 15-27: Remembering the RFE, I sought advice on XHS, Reddit, and 1m3f, and found a helpful RFE template shared by @MTG. I combined this with the remaining letters of recommendation to respond to every point in the RFE.

May 2025

• Early May: With work becoming overwhelming, I had to pause my NIW efforts.
• May 24-25: I printed, compiled, and mailed my RFE response.
• May 28: My RFE response was acknowledged.

June 2025

• June 4: I spent time reviewing my application and the RFE response.

July 2025

• July 1: My application received approval! 🎉

Final Thoughts

For anyone considering the DIY approach to their immigration petition, I strongly recommend reviewing the official policy first. If you have solid qualifications and experience writing papers, you can absolutely handle this process independently. It can turn out to be a rewarding endeavor, a great way to channel your efforts, and, surprisingly, a bit of fun amidst the chaos of life! 😊