Responding to an RFE on “Original Contributions of Major Significance”
Discussion One
A practical, evidence-driven discussion
One of the most misunderstood EB-1A criteria is original contributions of major significance. Many applicants believe that proving technical excellence or product development is enough. An RFE often clarifies that USCIS is asking a different question entirely.
Not what you built.
But why your work mattered to the field as a whole.
This discussion walks through how such an RFE can be addressed effectively, using a real-world response structure while redacting all critical and confidential information.1
The Core RFE Concern
In this case, USCIS acknowledged that the beneficiary had contributed original work in the field. However, the officer raised a familiar concern:
Developing products or services alone is not sufficient
The record must show major significance beyond routine job duties
The connection between the individual’s work and field-level impact must be clearly established
USCIS also reiterated that while expert letters are helpful, they cannot stand alone without independent, objective evidence demonstrating impact.
This aligns squarely with long-standing precedent and the Kazarian framework. Please read further to understand how to clarify.
