National Interest Waiver

Employment-Based Green Card in the EB-2 Category

Foreign nationals seeking a national interest waiver are requesting that the Labor Certification be waived because it is in the interest of the United States. Though the jobs that qualify for a national interest waiver are not defined by statute, national interest waivers are usually granted to those who have exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business, and whose employment in the United States would greatly benefit the nation. Those seeking a national interest waiver may self-petition (they do not need an employer to sponsor them).  In addition to providing evidence of an advanced degree or exceptional ability, you must also meet the three National Interest Waiver criteria: 

• The proposed endeavor has both substantial merit and national importance.

• You are well positioned to advance the proposed endeavor.

• It would be beneficial to the United States to waive the requirements of a job offer, and thus the labor certification.

The NIW petitions are typically used by postdocs and Ph.D. students, but can also apply to researchers, artists, business people, and many others.

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We are excited to help you on your path to getting your Green Card through the NIW process. 

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