EB-2 National Interest Waiver
The EB-2 NIW allows highly skilled professionals to self-petition for permanent residency without an employer sponsor, based on their work's benefit to the United States.
Processing Overview
I-140 Standard
6-12 months processing
Premium Processing
45 business days
Self-Petition
No employer needed
Detailed Information
Eligibility
Advanced degree professionals or those with exceptional ability whose work substantially benefits the U.S. national interest.
Key Requirements
Demonstrate advanced degree or exceptional ability, prove work has substantial merit and national importance, and show you are well-positioned to advance the endeavor.
Application Process
Self-petition Form I-140 without employer sponsor or job offer, followed by I-485 adjustment or consular processing.
Processing Timeline
I-140: 6-12 months standard, 45 days premium. I-485: 12-24 months. Priority dates vary by country of birth.
Benefits
Self-petition without employer, no job offer required, flexibility to change employers, concurrent I-485 filing when dates are current.
Considerations
Strong documentation required, Matter of Dhanasar criteria apply, STEM field advantage, visa backlogs for India/China.