Resources    >    Visa Guides

EB-2 NIW Visa Guide

Introduction

What is the EB-2 NIW visa and what does "NIW" mean?

The EB-2 NIW visa is a specialized immigration option within the Employment-Based Second Preference (EB-2) category. "NIW" stands for National Interest Waiver, a provision that allows qualified individuals to bypass certain requirements typically associated with employment-based immigration.

This visa category is designed for foreign nationals who possess advanced degrees or exceptional ability in their fields, and whose work is deemed to be in the national interest of the United States. The "waiver" aspect refers specifically to the waiving of the labor certification process and job offer requirement, which are typically mandatory for other employment-based green card categories.

Who is eligible for an EB-2 NIW?

Now, you might be wondering, "Am I qualified for this visa?" The EB-2 NIW casts a wide net, but it's not for everyone. Here's who might fit the bill:

  • Advanced Degree Holders: If you have a master's degree or higher, you're off to a good start. But remember, it's not just about the degree – it's about how you use it.
  • Exceptional Ability Individuals: Don't have an advanced degree? No problem! If you can prove exceptional ability in your field – be it sciences, arts, or business – you're still in the game.
  • National Interest Contributors: This is the heart of the NIW. Your work should somehow benefit the United States. Maybe you're developing a new cancer treatment, creating jobs in a struggling economy, or preserving a unique art form.
  • Self-Starters and Visionaries: Unlike many other visas, you don't need an employer to sponsor you. If you have a groundbreaking idea or project, you can sponsor yourself!
  • Diverse Professionals: From STEM fields to business innovators, from healthcare pioneers to cutting-edge artists – the EB-2 NIW welcomes a variety of talents.
Benefits of an EB-2 NIW visa
  • Self-Petition Option: Applicants can file their own petition without requiring an employer sponsor, providing greater autonomy in the immigration process.
  • Labor Certification Waiver: The NIW provision waives the requirement for a labor market test. Usually, employers have to prove they couldn't find a U.S. worker for the job. With NIW, you bypass this step and without the need for labor certification, the overall processing time can be shorter compared to other employment-based categories.
  • Employment Flexibility: Successful applicants are not tied to a specific employer and may pursue a range of employment opportunities or entrepreneurial ventures.
  • Direct Path to Permanent Residency: Approved EB-2 NIW petitions lead directly to green card eligibility, providing a clear route to permanent residency in the United States.

.

EB-2 NIW vs. PERM process
Aspect
Employer Sponsorship
Labor Certification
Processing Time
Job Flexibility
Self-Petition
Prevailing Wage Requirement
EB-2 NIW
Not required
Waived
Generally faster
High
Not required
Not applicable
PERM Process
Required
Mandatory
Can be lengthy due to labor certification
Limited to sponsoring employer
Not allowed
Mandatory

Understanding the EB-2 NIW Criteria

EB-2 visa requirements

To qualify for an EB-2 visa, applicants must meet one of two primary criteria:

Advanced Degree


An applicant can meet the advanced degree requirement in one of two ways:

  • Possession of an Advanced Degree: This refers to an academic or professional degree above the baccalaureate level. Typically, this includes - Master's degree, Ph.D., Professional degrees (e.g., M.D., J.D., MBA, etc.)
  • Equivalent of an Advanced Degree: This is defined as a U.S. baccalaureate degree or foreign equivalent degree PLUS at least five years of progressive post-baccalaureate work experience in the specialty

Key points to note

    • Progressive Experience: The five years of work experience must be "progressive" in nature, meaning it should show advancement in skills, knowledge, responsibility, or complexity over time.
    • Relevance to the Field: Both the degree and the work experience should be directly related to the field of exceptional ability or the area in which the applicant seeks to work in the United States.
    • Foreign Degree Equivalency: If the advanced degree was obtained outside the United States, it must be determined to be equivalent to a U.S. advanced degree. This often requires a credential evaluation from a recognized authority.
    • Timing of Degree and Experience: The five years of progressive experience must be gained after the baccalaureate degree is awarded.
    • Documentation: Applicants must provide clear evidence of their degree(s) and work experience, including official academic transcripts, degree certificates, detailed letters from employers documenting job responsibilities and dates of employment
    • Professional Degrees: Some professional degrees, such as a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) or Juris Doctor (J.D.), are considered advanced degrees even if they are the first degree obtained in that field in some countries.
    Exceptional Ability


    Demonstration of exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business. This is generally evidenced by meeting at least three of the following criteria:

    Official Academic Record

    • Must show a degree, diploma, or certificate from a college, university, school, or other institution of learning
    • The qualification must relate directly to the area of exceptional ability claimed
    • Foreign degrees should be accompanied by an evaluation demonstrating U.S. equivalency

    Letters Documenting 10+ Years of Full-Time Experience

    • Letters should be from current or former employers
    • Must detail at least 10 years of full-time experience in the occupation
    • Should include specific dates of employment, job titles, and detailed descriptions of duties performed

    Professional License or Certification

    • Must be a license to practice the profession or a certification for the profession/occupation
    • Should be current and valid at the time of application
    • If the occupation doesn't require licensing, alternative evidence of professional competence may be considered

    Evidence of High Salary or Remuneration

    • Must demonstrate that the individual has commanded a salary or other remuneration for services that indicates exceptional ability
    • Can include salary statements, tax returns, or offer letters
    • Should be compared to industry standards to show it's significantly above average

    Membership in Professional Associations

    • Memberships should be in associations related to the field of exceptional ability
    • Ideally, these associations should have selective membership requirements based on achievement or expertise
    • Documentation of membership criteria and the applicant's specific role in the association can strengthen the evidence

    Recognition for Achievements and Significant Contributions

    • Can include awards, patents, published articles, or media recognition
    • Recognition should come from peers, government entities, or professional/business organizations
    • Should clearly relate to the field of claimed exceptional ability

    Key points to note

      • Comparable Evidence: If the above standards do not readily apply to the applicant's occupation, they may submit comparable evidence to establish exceptional ability.
      • Relevance to Proposed Work: The evidence provided should relate directly to the work the applicant intends to perform in the United States.
      • Recency of Achievements: While not explicitly required, more recent achievements and recognition generally carry more weight.
      • Quality over Quantity: Meeting more than three criteria doesn't automatically guarantee approval. The overall quality and significance of the evidence are crucial.
      • Contextual Importance: Applicants should explain how each piece of evidence demonstrates their exceptional ability and its relevance to their proposed work in the U.S.
      In this EB-2 NIW Visa Guide:
      1.
      Introduction
      What is the EB-2 NIW visa and what does "NIW" mean?Who is eligible for an EB-2 NIW visa?Benefits of an EB-2 NIW visaEB-2 NIW vs. PERM process
      2.
      Understanding the EB-2 NIW Criteria
      EB-2 visa requirementsNIW requirements (Three-Prong test)Real world examples of successful applicants
      3.
      Building your EB-2 NIW profile
      Project selection and profile-buildingTimeline for profile buildingOvercoming common challenges
      4.
      The EB-2 NIW Application Process
      Required documentsHow to applyHow long it takes
      5.
      Concluding thoughts
      NIW requirements (Three-Prong test)

      The National Interest Waiver is granted based on a three-prong test established in the Matter of Dhanasar case. Applicants must satisfy all three prongs:

      Prong 1:
      The Foreign National's Proposed Endeavor Has Both Substantial Merit and National Importance

      Description

      This prong focuses on the nature and potential impact of your proposed work, not your personal qualifications. It requires demonstrating that your endeavor is both significantly valuable (“substantial merit”) and has the potential to benefit the United States as a whole (“national importance”).
      ‍
      • Substantial Merit: Your work should have intrinsic value and the potential to create significant positive impacts. This could be in fields such as science, technology, business, health, education, the arts, environmental conservation, economic development, etc. To demonstrate national importance, consider:
      • National Importance: The benefits of your work should extend beyond a local or regional level, potentially affecting the entire nation. It's not necessary to show immediate economic impact, but rather a broader potential benefit to the U.S. To demonstrate national importance, consider:

      Strategies

      • Clearly articulate the goals and objectives of their proposed endeavor
      • Explain the potential benefits and positive outcomes of their work
      • Provide concrete examples of how their work could advance their field or sector
      • Demonstrate the innovative or groundbreaking nature of their proposed endeavor
      • Explaining how the work aligns with national priorities or addresses critical needs
      • Showing how the endeavor could enhance U.S. competitiveness on a global scale
      • Illustrating potential benefits to multiple states or regions
      • Demonstrating how the work could influence industry standards or practices nationwide

      Considerations

      • Ensure your explanation is clear and accessible to non-experts
      • Focus on the potential impact rather than personal achievements
      • Consider both short-term and long-term benefits of your work
      • Be specific about how your work addresses national challenges or priorities
      Prong 2:
      The Foreign National is Well Positioned to Advance the Proposed Endeavor

      Description

      This prong evaluates your capacity to successfully carry out the proposed endeavor. It looks at your skills, knowledge, and experience in relation to your proposed work. The goal is to show that you are uniquely qualified to bring your project to fruition and achieve the beneficial outcomes described in Prong 1.

        Strategies

        • Highlight your education, skills, and experience relevant to the proposed endeavor
        • Provide evidence of past achievements or successes in related areas
        • Demonstrate access to necessary resources, facilities, or funding
        • Present a clear, well-thought-out plan for advancing the endeavor
        • Include letters from experts or potential collaborators attesting to your capabilities
        • Show proof of relevant patents, publications, or innovations

        Considerations

        • Ensure all evidence directly relates to your proposed endeavor
        • Emphasize unique skills or knowledge that set you apart
        • Be specific about how your qualifications will contribute to the success of the project
        • Consider including a timeline or milestones for your proposed work
        Prong 3:
        On Balance, it Would be Beneficial to the United States to Waive the Job Offer and Labor Certification Requirements

        Description

        This prong requires showing that the national interest of the United States would be better served by granting you the waiver than by going through the standard labor certification process. It involves demonstrating that the usual requirements might hinder or delay the benefits your work could bring to the nation.

          Strategies

          • Demonstrate urgency or time-sensitivity of your work
          • Show how your contributions could lead to job creation or economic growth
          • Highlight any unique skills or knowledge you possess that are rare in the U.S.
          • Explain how your work addresses critical national needs or challenges
          • Provide evidence of your past impactful contributions to your field
          • Demonstrate how your work could enhance U.S. competitiveness globally

          Considerations

          • Balance the potential benefits of your work against the interests protected by the labor certification process
          • Consider both immediate and long-term benefits to the U.S.
          • Be realistic and specific about the potential impact of your work
          • Address any potential concerns about displacing U.S. workers
          Real world examples of successful applicants

          A medical researcher developed a groundbreaking treatment for a rare genetic disorder affecting children. Their work, supported by numerous publications in top journals and significant research grants, has the potential to dramatically improve patients' lives and advance our understanding of aging-related diseases.

          An environmental scientist focused on innovative climate change mitigation strategies for developing countries. Their internationally recognized projects and extensive publications on sustainable practices offer valuable insights that could significantly benefit global environmental efforts and inform U.S. climate policy.

          A tech entrepreneur plans to establish a software development center in an economically depressed area of the United States. With a proven track record of job creation and economic revitalization in previous ventures, the project aims to create over 150 high-skilled jobs and stimulate local economic growth.

          A cybersecurity expert is renowned for developing advanced threat detection systems that enhance national security. Their expertise, sought after by government agencies, has contributed to significant cybersecurity initiatives protecting U.S. infrastructure from emerging digital threats.

          A public health researcher conducted critical research on infectious disease outbreaks, contributing to public health policy and response strategies. Their work has been instrumental in improving health outcomes during epidemics and strengthening the nation's preparedness for future health crises.

          A renewable energy engineer developed cutting-edge solar panel technology that increases efficiency and reduces costs. These innovations have the potential to significantly advance the renewable energy sector in the U.S., contributing to energy independence and environmental sustainability.

          A data scientist focused on improving machine learning algorithms for healthcare applications. Their work, recognized by leading tech companies, has significant implications for advancing medical diagnostics and improving patient care through innovative data analysis techniques.

          An agricultural scientist developed sustainable farming practices that significantly enhance crop yield and resilience to climate change. This research is critical for ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agriculture in the face of environmental challenges.

          Building your EB-2 NIW profile

          Project selection and profile-building

          01    Leverage Your Current Position

          Maximize Your Current Role

          • Identify aspects of your job that align with national interests or address significant challenges in your field.
          • Take on additional responsibilities or projects that showcase your expertise and leadership.
          • Example: If you're a software engineer, propose and lead a project to enhance cybersecurity measures within your company.

          Seek Professional Development Opportunities

          • Request to attend industry conferences or specialized training programs.
          • Pursue certifications relevant to your field that are recognized in the U.S.
          • Example: If you're in data science, obtain certifications like AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty or Google Professional Data Engineer.

          02    Identify Your Core Expertise and U.S. Priorities

          Conduct Thorough Research

          • Review government reports, industry white papers, and academic publications to identify current U.S. priorities in your field.
          • Analyze emerging trends and challenges that align with your expertise.
          • Example: For environmental scientists, research U.S. goals in renewable energy or climate change mitigation strategies.

          Map Your Skills to National Needs

          • Create a detailed list of your skills and experiences.
          • Match these skills to specific U.S. priorities or challenges you've identified.
          • Example: If you're an AI specialist, link your expertise to U.S. objectives in areas like healthcare diagnostics, financial fraud detection, or autonomous vehicle development.

          03    Develop a Project Concept

          Brainstorm Innovative Solutions

          • Generate multiple project ideas that address the U.S. priorities you've identified.
          • Evaluate each idea based on feasibility, potential impact, and alignment with your skills.

          Craft a Detailed Project Proposal

          • Outline the problem your project addresses, your proposed solution, and the potential impact.
          • Include specific goals, methodologies, and expected outcomes.
          • Example: Develop a comprehensive plan for an AI-driven early warning system for natural disasters, detailing how it could improve emergency response and save lives across the U.S.

          Emphasize Unique Aspects

          • Highlight what makes your approach innovative or more effective than existing solutions.
          • Explain why you are uniquely qualified to lead this project.

          04    Start Small, Think Big

          Implement a Pilot Study

          • Begin with a small-scale version of your project to prove its viability.
          • Set clear, measurable objectives for this initial phase.
          • Example: If your project involves improving urban transportation, start with a pilot program in one neighborhood or city district.

          Document Progress Meticulously

          • Keep detailed records of your methodology, challenges faced, and results achieved.
          • Use data visualization tools to present your findings effectively.

          Plan for Scalability

          • While working on your pilot, develop a roadmap for how the project could be expanded nationally.
          • Identify potential partners or stakeholders for larger-scale implementation.

          05    Engage with the Professional Community

          Join Professional Associations

          • Research and join multiple relevant professional organizations in your field.
          • Actively participate in online forums, webinars, and local chapter meetings.
          • Example: For a biomedical engineer, join associations like IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society and the Biomedical Engineering Society.

          Attend and Present at Conferences

          • Identify key conferences in your field and submit proposals to present your work.
          • Prepare compelling presentations that highlight the national importance of your project.
          • Network actively with other attendees, speakers, and industry leaders.

          Volunteer for Leadership Roles

          • Offer to lead committees or special interest groups within professional organizations.
          • Organize workshops or webinars related to your area of expertise.

          06    Document and Publish Your Work

          Develop a Publication Strategy

          • Create a list of target publications, ranging from industry blogs to peer-reviewed journals.
          • Plan a series of articles that showcase different aspects of your work and expertise.

          Write Regularly

          • Start with LinkedIn articles or personal blog posts to build your writing skills and online presence.
          • Progress to submitting articles to trade publications and industry websites.
          • Aim for peer-reviewed journal publications, focusing on high-impact journals in your field.

          Diversify Your Content

          • Write about your project's progress, methodologies, and preliminary findings.
          • Publish thought leadership pieces on trends and challenges in your field.
          • Contribute to or author white papers that address industry-wide issues.

          07    Collaborate and Network

          Build a Professional Network

          • Use LinkedIn and other professional platforms to connect with leaders in your field.
          • Engage regularly by commenting on posts and sharing insights.

          Seek Mentorship

          • Identify potential mentors who are established in your field and reach out to them.
          • Offer value in return, such as assisting with their research or projects.

          Initiate Collaborative Projects

          • Propose joint research or projects with other professionals or institutions.
          • Participate in cross-disciplinary initiatives that showcase the breadth of your expertise.

          Timeline for profile building

          Immediate steps

          (0-3 months before filing)
          • Identify your strongest evidence for meeting the three prongs of the NIW criteria
          • Finalize letters of recommendation from experts attesting to your qualifications and the importance of your work
          • Prepare a detailed plan for how you will advance your proposed endeavor
          • Gather documentation of your educational qualifications and work experience
          • Contact Alma to start working with their lawyers on drafting petition documents

          Short-term actions

          (0-3 months)
          • Finalize your proposed endeavor, ensuring it clearly demonstrates substantial merit and national importance
          • Gather evidence of your past achievements and their impact on your field
          • Write articles or thought leadership pieces that showcase your expertise and vision
          • Apply for relevant awards or secure patents related to your work
          • Begin compiling a comprehensive portfolio of your contributions and their significance

          Medium-term strategies

          (3-6 months)
          • Take on leadership roles in professional organizations related to your field
          • Collaborate on cross-disciplinary projects that demonstrate the broader impact of your work
          • Seek opportunities to contribute to policy discussions or industry standards in your area of expertise
          • Start documenting the impact of your work, including any adoptions of your methods or technologies
          • Identify and reach out to potential recommenders who can speak to the national importance of your work

          Long-term goals

          (12-24 months before filing petition)
          • Develop and lead a significant project in your field that addresses U.S. national interests
          • Cultivate expertise in a niche area that aligns with U.S. priorities
          • Build a consistent publication record in peer-reviewed journals or industry publications
          • Seek opportunities to present your work at national or international conferences
          • Begin building relationships with experts in your field for future recommendations

          Overcoming common challenges

          I'm early in my career. How can I demonstrate advanced degree or exceptional ability?
          Solution
          ‍          Focus on your educational qualifications and rapid professional growth. For example, if you're a recent Ph.D. graduate in bioengineering, highlight your innovative dissertation research, any patents filed, or contributions to cutting-edge projects. Seek opportunities to lead research initiatives or collaborate with established experts in your field. Demonstrate how your work, despite your early career stage, is already addressing important issues in your field.
          My work doesn't result in many publications. How can I show my contributions?
          Solution
          ‍          Focus on other forms of evidence such as technical reports, white papers, or industry presentations. For instance, if you're in software development, showcase your contributions to major projects, any algorithms or systems you've developed, or your role in creating industry standards. Document how your work has been implemented and its impact on your company or industry.
          How can I demonstrate that my work is in the national interest?
          Solution
          ‍          Connect your work to broader U.S. priorities or challenges. For example, if you're working on renewable energy technologies, demonstrate how your work contributes to U.S. energy independence and environmental goals. Provide data on potential economic impacts, job creation, or advancements in critical areas of national importance. Letters from experts or policymakers attesting to the importance of your work can be particularly powerful.
          I don't have many years of experience. How can I show exceptional ability?
          Solution
          ‍          Focus on the quality and impact of your contributions rather than the quantity. Highlight any groundbreaking projects, rapid advancements, or unique skills you possess. For instance, if you're a data scientist, showcase how your models have significantly improved efficiency or decision-making in your industry. Emphasize any recognition you've received, even if it's not a formal award, such as being selected for high-profile projects or speaking engagements.
          My work involves proprietary information. How can I describe my achievements?
          Solution
          ‍          Get permission to disclose general information about your work without revealing specific confidential details. Focus on the outcomes and impact of your work rather than the technical specifics. For example, if you work in pharmaceutical research, you might discuss your role in developing a new class of drugs without revealing the specific compounds. Alma's experienced immigration lawyers can guide you on how to present proprietary work appropriately in your petition.
          I'm working in a field different from my educational background. Will this affect my application?
          Solution
          ‍          Emphasize how your diverse background brings unique value to your current field. Show how your interdisciplinary approach leads to innovative solutions. For instance, if you have a physics background but work in financial modeling, demonstrate how your scientific approach has led to more accurate predictive models. Highlight any additional training or certifications you've obtained in your current field.
          I'm self-employed or planning to start my own business. How can I qualify for NIW?
          Solution
          ‍          Focus on the potential impact of your business or freelance work on the U.S. economy or your field. Provide a detailed business plan showing how your venture addresses a national need. For example, if you're starting a company in health tech, demonstrate how your product could reduce healthcare costs or improve patient outcomes on a national scale. Include projections for job creation and economic impact.
          English isn't my first language. Will this affect my NIW application?
          Solution
          ‍          While language proficiency is not a direct criterion for NIW, it's important that your application effectively communicates your achievements and the importance of your work. Focus on your professional accomplishments and the merit of your proposed endeavor. Consider working with Alma's team to ensure your application materials are clear, persuasive, and accurately reflect the national importance of your work and your ability to advance your field.

          The EB-2 NIW Application Process

          Required documents

          Gathering the right documents is crucial for your EB-2 NIW application. Here's what you'll need:

          Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker: This is the main form for your EB-2 NIW application. Unlike the O-1A, you can self-petition for the EB-2 NIW.

          Supporting Evidence: This is where you prove you meet the EB-2 NIW criteria. This could include:

          • Copies of advanced degrees or exceptional ability evidence
          • Proof of achievements in your field (awards, patents, etc.)
          • Documentation showing the national importance of your work
          • Evidence of your ability to advance the proposed endeavor
          • Proof of sustained national or international acclaim

          Recommendation Letters:  These are letters from experts in your field who can vouch for your abilities and the national importance of your work. They should focus on how your work serves the national interest of the United States.

          Personal Statement:  A detailed explanation of your proposed endeavor and its importance to the United States.

          Evidence of Ability to Pay: If you're self-petitioning, include evidence of your ability to support yourself while pursuing your endeavor.

          Photos:   Recent passport-style photographs of yourself.

          Filing Fee: The current filing fee for Form I-140 is $715. Premium processing fee is an additional $2,805.

          How to apply
          • Prepare Your Petition: Gather all required documents and complete Form I-140. Consider working with an immigration lawyer to strengthen your application.
          • File the Petition: You can file the petition directly with USCIS. This can be done by mail or, in some cases, online.
          • Wait for Processing: USCIS will review your petition. They may request additional evidence if needed.
          • Receive Decision: If approved, you'll receive an approval notice. You can then proceed with adjustment of status if in the U.S., or consular processing if abroad.
          How long it takes
          • Regularly Processing: Regular processing typically takes 6 to 12 months. This is the standard timeline for USCIS to process your EB-2 NIW petition without any additional fees. Actual processing times can vary depending on USCIS workload and the specifics of your case.
          • Premium Processing: For faster processing, you can opt for Premium Processing. For an extra fee (currently $2,805), USCIS guarantees to process your petition within 15 calendar days. This doesn't guarantee approval, just a faster decision.
          • Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: After I-140 approval, if you're in the U.S., filing for adjustment of status (Form I-485) can take an additional 8-14 months. If abroad, consular processing timelines vary by country.
          • Track Your Application: You can track your application status online using the USCIS website. You'll need your receipt number, which you receive after filing.
          • Timing Tips:
            • Plan ahead: The EB-2 NIW process can take several years from start to finish.
            • Consider visa bulletin: Check the visa bulletin regularly to understand when a visa number might be available for you.
            • Maintain status: If you're in the U.S., ensure you maintain valid status throughout the process.

          Remember, the EB-2 NIW visa process can be complex and time-consuming. Many applicants find it helpful to work with an experienced immigration attorney. They can guide you through each step, help prepare your documents, and answer any questions you have along the way.

          Concluding thoughts

          The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) can be a powerful pathway for advanced degree professionals and individuals with exceptional ability who aim to contribute significantly to the United States. While the application process is rigorous, it's also an opportunity to reflect on your professional achievements and articulate how your work can benefit the nation.

          Remember, the journey to an EB-2 NIW is not just about immigration; it's about demonstrating your potential to make substantial contributions to your field and to the United States. Each step you take to strengthen your application - whether it's publishing groundbreaking research, developing innovative technologies, or leading impactful projects - is also advancing your career and increasing your influence in your field.

          Whether you're a pioneering researcher, an innovative entrepreneur, a talented artist, or an accomplished professional in any field, the EB-2 NIW offers a pathway to bring your exceptional abilities to the United States. With careful planning, strategic career moves, and a clear understanding of the requirements, you can turn your exceptional abilities into exceptional opportunities that serve both your career goals and the national interest of the U.S.

          As we conclude this guide, let's recap the key points about the EB-2 NIW:

          Accessibility: While the EB-2 NIW is for individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability, it's more attainable than many people think. You don't need to be world-renowned to qualify.
          Self-Petitioning: Unlike many employment-based visas, the EB-2 NIW allows you to self-petition, offering greater control over your immigration process.
          Flexibility: The NIW waives the job offer and labor certification requirements, providing flexibility in your career path and work arrangements in the U.S.
          Criteria-Based: Qualification is based on meeting the three-pronged test established in Matter of Dhanasar, which can be adapted to various professions and career stages.
          National Interest Focus: Your application should clearly demonstrate how your work serves the national interest of the United States.
          Long-Term Perspective: The EB-2 NIW is a path to permanent residency, requiring you to think long-term about your contributions to your field and the U.S.
          Documentation is Key: Thorough documentation of your achievements, the importance of your work, and your ability to advance your proposed endeavor is crucial for a successful application.
          Continuous Growth: Even after obtaining approval, continuing to make significant contributions in your field is important for maintaining your status and eventual citizenship application.

          The EB-2 NIW process can be complex, but it offers a unique opportunity for exceptional individuals to contribute their talents to the United States while advancing their own careers. By understanding the requirements, strategically building your profile, and effectively presenting your case, you can navigate this process successfully.

          Share

          Immigration made easy!

          LEGAL

          Disclaimer: Alma is not a law firm and nothing on this website, including guides and resources, is to be considered legal advice. Blank immigration forms with instructions are available for free at the USCIS website. Alma partners with licensed immigration attorneys who provide all legal advice on a contract basis. Communications between Alma and you are governed by our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service but are not covered by the attorney-client privilege.

          Copyright © 2023 ALMA. All rights reserved.