3. EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW)
Now we are getting into an option that many highly qualified professionals should at least understand.
The EB-2 National Interest Waiver can allow certain applicants to seek a green card without the usual employer sponsorship and labor-certification process if they qualify for the waiver.
The underlying EB-2 category generally covers:
* Professionals holding advanced degrees
* People with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business
The Department of State describes advanced-degree professionals and people with exceptional ability as the core EB-2 group.
The “NIW” part is the special piece.
So, Instead of simply asking:
“Can an American employer sponsor me?”
the case focuses on whether the applicant’s proposed work has sufficient importance to justify waiving the normal job offer and labor-certification requirements.
Who might explore EB-2 NIW?
Potential candidates can include professionals working in areas such as:
1. Technology
2. Engineering
3. Healthcare
4. Scientific research
5. Education
6. Business
7. Energy
Other fields where their proposed work may have broader importance
But here is something important:
NIW is not simply a shortcut for anyone with a master’s degree.
You still have to satisfy the applicable EB-2 requirements and establish the basis for the national-interest waiver.
That’s why this is one of those categories where getting qualified immigration advice can be particularly valuable.