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Sample Email Message for Contacting Potential NIW References

IMPORTANT NOTE: This message serves as a sample only for the reference of the general public.
The information provided in this message is of a general nature and may not apply to any specific
facts or under all circumstances. It should not be construed as legal advice, and reading or
downloading this message does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It is strongly
recommended that you consult with an experienced attorney regarding any legal issues involved in
the process.

Dear Reference:

I have a tremendous favor to ask of you and please do not hesitate to decline if it is too much of an
imposition.

As I obtained my Ph.D. and started a career in the U.S., I am planning to apply for permanent
residency through National Interest Waiver, a special immigration classification given to foreign
talents who have advanced degree or exceptional ability in science and arts.

Under National Interest Waiver, a foreign researcher needs to submit evidence to the U.S. Citizenship
and Immigration Service establishing his/her qualifications as a talented researcher who has made
noteworthy contributions in his/her field of research. Such evidence includes, among other things, a
number of supporting letters signed by experts in the same field of research. A typical letter will
show that the foreign national’s work will benefit the U.S. national interest at a substantially higher
degree than a U.S. worker with minimum qualifications.

If you are tentatively willing to help me out with this process by providing a supporting letter, I will
email you my CV and other documents that may help you know my work. However, I know you are
exceedingly busy and any time at all is a burden which is why I hate to trouble you with this request,
and will completely understand if you decline. Thank you in advance for your help.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely yours,

Petitioner

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