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How Do I Apply for an EB-2 NIW Visa?
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The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) Visa offers a distinctive pathway for individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities to secure a visa without the need for traditional employment sponsorship. At Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, we have extensive experience assisting clients in obtaining this visa. Here’s what you need to know about the EB-2 NIW application process.
What Is the EB-2 NIW Visa?
The EB-2 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa classification for those who possess either an advanced degree or exceptional ability in their field. The National Interest Waiver (NIW) offers a unique pathway to a green card, allowing individuals to self-petition without the need for a job offer or labor certification. This waiver is granted when the applicant’s work is deemed to benefit the national interest of the United States.
This visa is especially valuable for individuals in fields like science, technology, healthcare, education, or entrepreneurship, where their contributions can have a substantial and positive impact.
Key Steps in the EB-2 NIW Application Process
Applying for an EB-2 NIW visa involves several steps, all requiring meticulous preparation and thorough documentation.
1. Confirm Eligibility
Advanced Degree Requirement:
- A master’s degree or higher (or foreign equivalent).
- Alternatively, a bachelor’s degree with at least five years of progressive post-graduate work experience.
Exceptional Ability in Your Field:
- Demonstrate expertise significantly above that commonly encountered in your profession.
National Interest Criteria:
- Your proposed initiative must demonstrate significant value and carry national importance.
- You must provide evidence that you are well-positioned to execute this endeavor.
- Show that waiving the labor certification requirement benefits the U.S.
2. Gather Necessary Documentation
To strengthen your case, you will need:
- Academic credentials such as diplomas or transcripts.
- Evidence of your professional achievements (e.g., publications, awards, or patents).
- Recommendation letters from experts in your field.
- A detailed plan outlining the significance of your work to the U.S. or its people.
- Proof of your ability to accomplish the proposed endeavor.
3. Submit Form I-140
- File Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Include all supporting evidence that justifies your request for a National Interest Waiver.
- Pay the required filing fee ($715 as of 2025).
4. Green Card Application
- If your petition is approved, check the Visa Bulletin to confirm visa availability under the EB-2 category.
- File Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, if applying from within the U.S.
- For applicants abroad, pursue consular processing.
Potential Challenges
While the NIW process eliminates the need for an employer sponsor, challenges may arise:
- Documentation Complexity: Gathering and organizing evidence is time-intensive.
- Subjective Review: USCIS officers evaluate petitions on a case-by-case basis.
- Processing Delays: Form I-140 processing may take 10 to 26 months.
Contact Us
The EB-2 NIW visa offers a significant pathway to permanent residency for those whose work aligns with the national interest of the U.S. While the process can appear intimidating, having experienced legal guidance ensures that your application is not only complete but also persuasive. Reach out to Kriezelman Burton & Associates today to explore your eligibility and take the next steps towards achieving your immigration goals.
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I had a wonderful experience working with Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC. From start to finish, the team was professional, knowledgeable, and truly dedicated to guiding me through every step of the process. They made what could have been a stressful situation feel smooth and manageable, always answering questions quickly and keeping me updated. I especially want to thank Khabit for his outstanding support—he was patient, detail-oriented, and went above…
Many thanks to attorney Kevin A Raica and his assistant Rafael Rodriguez for all their help. My immigration case went very smoothly and quickly.
We worked with Kevin Raica from Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, and I can confidently say he went above and beyond for us. Our process was very long and at times overwhelming, but Kevin guided us every step of the way with professionalism, patience, and dedication. He was always available to answer our questions, explained everything clearly, and made sure we understood our options at each stage. What stood out…
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I really want to thank Justin and Kamila; they are the best. I waited almost 20 years and no one could help me get my green card and in 4 months they helped me get my permit, and I got my green card in less then 4 months. They are the best. I will always be grateful for what they did for me, thank you Justin and Kamila!!!!
I am writing this review to express my deepest gratitude for the hard work on our case by our Immigration Attorney, Lauren McClure and her Paralegal, Kamila Lada. My Green Card was approved! I know this wouldn't have been possible without their expertise and dedication. They both were extremely helpful, responsive, and guided us through every step of the way. Lauren took the time to train us for our interview…
I am incredibly grateful to Mr. Burton for his outstanding legal assistance in my immigration case, from my first consultation he heard me patiently demonstrating exceptional professionalism, expertise, and a genuine commitment to my case. Immigration process can be overwhelming and stressful, but he and his team provided clear guidance every step of the way, always answering my questions promptly and reassuring me with their deep expertise. Thanks to their…
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Highly recommend this firm. I had the pleasure of working with Lauren McClure and she is absolutely the best. She was very helpful and walked me through every step of the process, she is patient and she got the job done. I am very grateful with her and her team for helping me with the process of my case. Thank you so much.
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