🇺🇸 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?
Don’t want to figure this out alone?
We handle the whole process end to end: we check your documents, match a program to your situation and give you honest timelines and costs. Leave your details and a migration expert will get back to you. The first consultation is free.