🇺🇸 Talent visa · USA EB-2 NIW
EB-2 NIW visa USA for highly skilled professionals
A green card for people whose work is in the national interest of the United States — no employer and no PERM labor certification required.
The EB-2 NIW visa is an immigrant program that allows talented professionals and researchers to obtain a US green card without a job offer or PERM certification, if their work is considered to be in the national interest.
Legal framework
EB-2 NIW is a subcategory of the EB-2 immigrant classification. Applicants must hold either an advanced degree (master's, doctorate, or a bachelor's plus at least 5 years of professional experience), or demonstrate exceptional ability in science, arts or business, documented by meeting at least 3 of 7 USCIS criteria.
National interest
Applicants must also prove national interest: show that their proposed work has substantial significance for the US — for example in science, technology, healthcare, education, business or culture. A clear plan for future work in the country is required.
- National importance. The proposed work must have substantial significance for the United States.
- Qualifications. The applicant must have the education and skills to carry out the proposed work.
The petition is filed on Form I-140. Standard adjudication takes 6–9 months, or 45 calendar days with premium processing for an additional fee.
Each case is evaluated individually. On a free consultation we assess your chances and help build the evidence.
Benefits of the EB-2 NIW visa
Direct route to a green card
An approved petition leads directly to permanent resident status in the US — with no English test at this stage.
Self-petition
No US employer or PERM certification is required — applicants file Form I-140 themselves.
Green card for the whole family
A spouse and unmarried children under 21 also obtain a green card alongside the applicant.
Faster adjudication
With premium processing, USCIS decides on Form I-140 within 45 calendar days instead of the standard 6–9 months.
How to get the EB-2 NIW visa: step by step
Confirm eligibility
Verify you hold a master's degree (or bachelor's with 5 years of experience) or exceptional ability, and describe the national importance of your work.
Gather documents
Diplomas, proof of qualification and experience, publications, patents and other achievements. Prepare a petition letter and recommendation letters from experts.
File Form I-140
Submit Form I-140 requesting the National Interest Waiver, attach the evidence and pay the USCIS filing fee.
Wait for adjudication
Standard processing is 6–9 months, or 45 days with premium processing. USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE).
Obtain the green card
After I-140 approval, file Form I-485 if you are in the US, or proceed through consular processing abroad.
FAQ
Who qualifies for EB-2 NIW?
Is a US employer required?
How long does adjudication take?
Which family members get a green card with the applicant?
When can I apply for US citizenship?
Want to get the EB-2 NIW visa?
Message our Telegram bot — a Murblz expert assesses whether your project meets the national interest criteria and helps build your case. The first consultation is free.