USA EB-2 NATIONAL INTEREST WAIVER (NIW)

The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) is a U.S. immigration program that allows highly skilled professionals, advanced degree holders, and individuals with exceptional abilities to self-petition for a green card (permanent residency) without requiring a job offer or employer sponsorship. This pathway is ideal for individuals whose work benefits the national interest of the United States.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

To qualify under the EB-2 NIW, an applicant must meet the EB-2 visa requirements and show that a waiver of the standard job offer/labor certification is justified based on national interest.

General EB-2 Requirements (one of the following):

• Hold an advanced degree (master’s or higher) OR
• Hold a bachelor’s degree and 5+ years of progressive experience in the field OR
• Demonstrate exceptional ability in sciences, arts, or business

NIW-Specific Criteria (must meet all three):

The petitioner must demonstrate that:

1. The proposed endeavor has substantial merit and national importance
2. The applicant is well-positioned to advance the endeavor
3. It would be beneficial to the U.S. to waive the job offer and labor certification requirement

APPLICATION PROCESS

1. Prepare a Strong Petition Package
   Gather evidence such as academic credentials, publications, patents, letters of recommendation, media coverage, and proof of national or global impact.
2. File Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition)
   Submit the petition to USCIS along with supporting documents proving eligibility under EB-2 NIW.
3. Wait for Priority Date to Become Current
   Check the Visa Bulletin for your country of birth. For many countries, EB-2 is current or has short wait times.
4. Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing

• If in the U.S., file Form I-485 to adjust status to permanent resident.
• If outside the U.S., complete consular processing through the U.S. embassy.

BENEFITS OF THE EB-2 NIW

• No Job Offer or Employer Sponsorship Required
• Self-petitioning: Full control over your immigration process
• No Labor Certification (PERM): Avoids the long and costly employer-based sponsorship process
• Green Card for You and Your Family: Includes spouse and unmarried children under 21
• Eligibility Across Many Fields: Science, technology, medicine, education, arts, and business
• Pathway to U.S. Citizenship: Apply for U.S. citizenship after holding a green card for 5 years
• Flexible Career Path: Freedom to change jobs, start a business, or conduct independent research

IDEAL CANDIDATES FOR EB-2 NIW INCLUDE:

• Researchers and scientists with publications or patents
• Tech professionals and engineers working on critical infrastructure or innovation
• Medical professionals addressing healthcare shortages
• Entrepreneurs and business leaders creating jobs or driving economic growth
• Environmental experts working on climate and sustainability
• Academics or educators impacting national educational standards

WHY CHOOSE THE EB-2 NIW PATHWAY?

The EB-2 National Interest Waiver is one of the most flexible and prestigious U.S. green card programs, offering a clear route for highly accomplished individuals to live and work permanently in the United States. Whether you are a STEM researcher, public health expert, or visionary entrepreneur, the EB-2 NIW recognizes your value to America — no employer required.