EB-2 NIW Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) is a pathway to U.S. everlasting residency (Green Card) for noticeably trained authorities whose work blessings the country. Unlike different employment-depending eco-friendly card categories, the EB-2 NIW makes it possible for candidates to self-petition, meaning they do now not desire a specific employer sponsor. This makes it an captivating selection for authorities in fields like technological know-how, technology, healthcare, commercial enterprise, and academia.
If you’re thinking of employing for how to apply for an eb visa an EB-2 NIW, here's a step-by means of-step book to help you be aware the procedure:
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
To qualify for an EB-2 NIW, you would have to meet two key requirements:
A. EB-2 Advanced Degree or Exceptional Ability
Applicants must meet the sort of situations:
Hold a sophisticated diploma (grasp’s, Ph.D., or identical) or a bachelor's diploma with at the very least five years of innovative enjoy in their area.
Demonstrate exceptional means in sciences, arts, or commercial enterprise by using assembly as a minimum three out of six USCIS criteria (consisting of a known award, membership in respectable associations, revealed work, or a high cash).
B. National Interest Waiver (NIW) Criteria
Applicants have to end up that waiving the normal job supply and exertions certification standards is within the U.S. country wide hobby. According to the Dhanasar framework, an applicant ought to:
Work in a discipline with mammoth advantage and country wide magnitude.
Be nicely-placed to enhance the sector.
Show that it's inside the foremost activity of the U.S. to waive the hard work certification requirement.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Applicants needs to practice a good petition equipment, including:
Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers)
Personal remark detailing contributions and country wide attention effect
Recommendation letters from specialists within the subject
Evidence of achievements (courses, patents, citations, media protection, or awesome tasks)
Educational and paintings revel in information
Proof of funding or ongoing tasks (if ideal)
Step 3: File Form I-one hundred forty Petition
The EB-2 NIW process starts off by means of submitting Form I-one hundred forty with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This might be accomplished by way of commonly used or top class processing (offered in 2023), which hurries up adjudication.
Filing value: $700 (as of 2024)
Processing time: Typically 6-year, however with top class processing, it is able to be as swift as 45 days
Step four: Wait for USCIS Decision
After submitting the I-140, USCIS can even:
Approve the petition
Request further facts (RFE)
Deny the petition
A amazing petition with forged supporting data minimizes delays.
Step five: File for Adjustment of Status (I-485) or Consular Processing
Once the I-140 is accepted and the priority date is modern (according to the Visa Bulletin), applicants can:
File Form I-485 (if throughout the U.S.)
Proceed with consular processing (if outdoor the U.S.)
This step comprises biometrics, scientific tests, and an interview in the past Green Card approval.
Final Thoughts
The EB-2 NIW program system is complex, yet with the true education, it provides a giant pathway to U.S. residency for talented authorities. Seeking authorized counsel can make stronger your percentages of approval.