
The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) visa offers a unique pathway for foreign nationals with exceptional ability, advanced degrees, or expertise in areas of national significance to obtain a U.S. green card.
This employment-based visa (second preference) includes a “national interest waiver,” which allows applicants to bypass the usual requirement of having a job offer or employer sponsorship. Instead, individuals can petition the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) directly, demonstrating how their skills and expertise serve the national interest.
By waiving the job offer and labor certification requirements, the EB-2 NIW streamlines the green card process, making it an attractive option for highly skilled professionals eager to contribute to the United States.
The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) visa has several benefits, including:
Applying for an EB-2 NIW visa requires demonstrating your eligibility under specific legal criteria. Here’s what you need to know about the visa requirements:
You must qualify under one of two categories:
A master’s degree or higher, or a bachelor’s degree plus at least five years of progressive experience in your field.
Demonstrated expertise in sciences, arts, or business, which needs to be significantly above what is usually seen in their field. It requires fulfilling at least three of the following criteria:
Your application must satisfy the Matter of Dhanasar framework, which includes:
At Raju Law, we specialize in helping clients compile strong petitions that meet these requirements.
Applying for an EB-2 NIW visa requires demonstrating your eligibility under specific legal criteria. Here’s what you need to know about the visa requirements:
Submit the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker (Form I-140) to USCIS with evidence of an advanced degree or exceptional ability, along with proof that your work benefits the U.S.
If already in the U.S. on another visa, file Form I-485 to transition to permanent residency after I-140 approval.
If outside the U.S., schedule an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy and provide all required documents.
Upon approval, obtain lawful permanent residency. Processing times vary from months to years.
Incomplete or incorrect documentation can delay or jeopardize approval. A well-prepared petition is crucial.
Success in the EB-2 NIW process requires expertise, strategy, and attention to detail—Raju Law delivers exactly that. We ensure a precise, well-documented, and persuasive application.
Raju Law streamlines every step, maximizing your chances of EB-2 NIW approval.
At Raju Law, we offer transparent, competitive fees for EB-2 NIW services, ensuring exceptional value and expert legal support for your case.
Initial Installment: $3,280 / $4,280 / $6,110 / $7,950 (based on the profile)
• Attorney fees: $6,280 / $9,280 / $12,360 / $15,450 (based on the profile), (including LoR & RFE)
• $715 USCIS Fee
• $2,965 USCIS Fee for Premium Processing (Optional)
• $600/$300/$0 USCIS Fee for Asylum Program
• FedEx Fee
Initial Installment: $7,950
• Attorney Fee: $15,450 (including LoR & RFE)
• $715 USCIS Fee
• $2,965 USCIS Fee for Premium Processing (Optional)
• $600/$300/$0 USCIS Fee for Asylum Program
• FedEx Fee
Navigating the EB-2 NIW process can present various challenges, but Raju Law’s expert EB-2 NIW team, with its immigration lawyers, effectively addresses even complex issues. One common challenge is Requests for Evidence (RFEs). An RFE is issued when USCIS requires additional information or documentation to evaluate your case. This often arises from insufficient evidence, unclear arguments, or gaps in the submitted materials.
At Raju Law, RFEs are handled with urgency and precision. Our expert team carefully analyzes the USCIS notice, identifies gaps, and prepares a detailed, compelling response with additional evidence to strengthen your case. By prioritizing such challenges and responding promptly, we ensure your application remains on track and positioned for success.
Take the first step toward achieving your immigration goals with confidence. At Raju Law, our expert team of EB-2 NIW lawyers combines years of experience with a client-focused approach to deliver results. From initial evaluation to green card approval, we provide tailored support at every stage, ensuring your petition stands out. Contact us today to begin your seamless path to permanent residency.
A lawyer cannot alter USCIS processing times, but an experienced immigration attorney can streamline the application process by ensuring accuracy and avoiding errors that might cause delays. An expert lawyer helps keep your green card application on track by proactively addressing potential issues.
Yes, the EB-2 NIW allows for self-petitioning, meaning applicants can apply without an employer sponsor. However, working with an experienced EB-2 NIW immigration lawyer can significantly enhance your chances of success by ensuring a well-prepared and compelling application.
Denials or Requests for Evidence (RFEs) often result from insufficient documentation, weak evidence of advanced qualifications or exceptional ability, or a poorly articulated proposed endeavor. At Raju Law, our expert EB-2 NIW attorneys ensure your petition addresses these critical areas effectively.
No, the EB-2 NIW does not require an employer sponsor. Applicants can self-petition by demonstrating that their work has substantial merit and national importance and that they are well-positioned to advance the proposed endeavor.
Yes, Premium processing is currently available for all NIW cases. The USCIS offers this service, which allows you to receive a decision within 45 business days. Opting for this will not affect or influence the result of your petition in any way. This optional service shortens the processing time by an additional fee. At Raju Law, our expert EB-2 NIW attorneys can guide you through the premium processing option and help determine the right choice for your case.
Having an experienced EB-2 NIW lawyer significantly increases your chances of success. Immigration attorneys ensure your petition is well-prepared, evidence is documented correctly, and your case is presented persuasively to USCIS, avoiding costly mistakes or delays. However, hiring a lawyer for an EB-2 NIW application is not mandatory.