For highly skilled professionals, the United States offers several employment-based immigration opportunities.
Among them, the EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) stands out as a flexible option for individuals who can demonstrate that their work is of national importance. Unlike most employment-based petitions, the NIW allows applicants to self-petition—meaning they do not need a job offer or employer sponsorship to request immigrant classification.
In this article, we’ll explain what the EB-2 NIW is, who qualifies, and what benefits it offers.
The EB-2 NIW is not a visa or a green card. It is an employment-based second preference immigrant petition category (Form I-140). If approved, it allows individuals to apply for lawful permanent residence (commonly known as a green card).
Normally, EB-2 petitions require:
The National Interest Waiver removes both of these requirements. Instead, the applicant must prove that their proposed work has substantial merit and national importance, that they are well-positioned to advance the work, and that it would be beneficial to the United States to waive the usual job and labor certification requirements.
This flexibility makes the NIW particularly appealing to entrepreneurs, researchers, healthcare professionals, and other experts who can contribute to the U.S. in meaningful ways.
To qualify for the EB-2 immigrant classification, applicants must show they are either:
OR
To demonstrate exceptional ability, the applicant must meet at least three of six regulatory criteria, which can include academic achievements, work experience, professional licenses, high salaries, memberships in professional organizations, and recognition from peers or professional groups.
If the EB-2 NIW petition is approved, the individual’s spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 may be eligible to apply for admission to the United States in E-21 and E-22 immigrant status, respectively.
Once you understand what the EB-2 NIW is and who can apply, it’s also important to think about how this opportunity could improve your life, both professionally and personally. Here are some of the biggest benefits of living and working in the U.S. through the EB-2 NIW:
If these benefits sound like the right fit for your goals and lifestyle, the EB-2 NIW could be the perfect path to build your future in the United States.
Approval of an EB-2 NIW petition does not automatically grant lawful permanent resident status.
It makes the applicant eligible to apply for permanent residency through either:
At High Net Worth Immigration, we specialize in helping talented professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors navigate the complex U.S. immigration process, including the EB-2 NIW. Our team has years of experience guiding clients through every step, from preparing strong petitions to advising on the next stages toward permanent residency.
We don’t just assist with U.S. immigration. We also support clients seeking residency and citizenship in other countries around the world, offering customized solutions based on your career goals, family needs, and global mobility plans.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward living and working in the U.S. or expanding your opportunities worldwide, contact High Net Worth Immigration today.
Not always. While the Form I-140 petition itself does not require an interview, if you later apply for adjustment of status or attend a consular interview abroad to apply for lawful permanent residence, you may be required to attend an interview at that stage.
Yes. Entrepreneurs who can show their business or project has substantial merit and national importance may qualify, especially if it creates jobs or advances key industries.
There is no formal English test required for the EB-2 NIW petition itself. However, English proficiency may be important for your work and any interviews during the green card process.