EB-2 / National Interest Waiver (NIW)
The EB-2 category applies to professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability, including those seeking a National Interest Waiver that removes the requirement for employer sponsorship.
NIW cases require demonstrating that the applicant's work has substantial merit and national importance.
Cohen Visa advises professionals on eligibility, evidence strategy, and case positioning for EB-2 and NIW petitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about EB-2 and NIW
The NIW allows certain EB-2 applicants to bypass the requirement for employer sponsorship and labor certification. Applicants must demonstrate that their work has substantial merit and national importance, and that they are well-positioned to advance it.
EB-2 applies to professionals with advanced degrees (or equivalent) or exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business. NIW cases require additional evidence that the applicant's work serves the national interest of the United States.
NIW cases require demonstrating substantial merit and national importance of the applicant's proposed endeavor, the applicant's ability to advance it, and that waiving the job offer and labor certification would benefit the U.S. Cohen Visa advises on evidence strategy and case positioning.
Traditional EB-2 requires employer sponsorship and labor certification. The NIW allows self-petitioning if you can demonstrate that your work qualifies for the national interest waiver. Cohen Visa advises on eligibility and petition strategy.