What requirements? How much does it cost? Do I need to work? We answer these and all other questions about how to get an EB-2 visa.
Introduction: If you are a highly qualified professional and dream of living and working in the United States, you have probably heard about the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) visa. This visa offers a unique opportunity for people with exceptional skills to obtain a Green Card without the need for a job offer. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain what the EB-2 NIW is, its requirements, benefits and how you can qualify for this visa category.
What is the EB-2 NIW Visa?
EB-2 NIW is a category of visa created to attract highly qualified professionals who can significantly benefit the economy, cultural or educational interests, or welfare of the country. Unlike other work visas, the EB-2 NIW does not require a job offer from an American employer.
EB-2 NIW Visa Requirements:
To qualify for the EB-2 NIW, you must meet certain requirements. Here are the main points to consider:
- Exceptional ability: You must demonstrate exceptional abilities in the sciences, arts, sports, business or other related areas.
- Substantial benefit: You must prove that your presence in the United States will be of substantial benefit to the country’s economy, cultural or educational interests, or the welfare of the United States.
- National interest waiver: You must obtain a national interest waiver, which is granted when the US government recognizes that your presence is of interest to the country. This means that you don’t need a specific job offer to apply for the EB-2 NIW.
- Advanced degree or professional experience: Generally, a master’s degree or higher is required in the United States, or an equivalent foreign degree. In addition, you can prove your qualification through relevant work experience.
Benefits of the EB-2 NIW Visa:
The EB-2 NIW offers a number of benefits for highly qualified professionals who wish to immigrate to the United States. Here are some of the advantages of this visa:
- No job offer required: Unlike many other work visas, the EB-2 NIW does not require a job offer from an American employer.
- Professional independence: With the EB-2 NIW, you are not dependent on a specific employer, which gives you the freedom to work on different projects and even start your own business.
- Pathway to the Green Card: The EB-2 NIW is a gateway to the Green Card, which grants permanent residency in the United States. After obtaining the Green Card, you can enjoy the benefits of living and working legally in the country.
- Growth opportunities: Living in the United States offers countless opportunities for professional growth and access to a diverse and prosperous job market.
How do I qualify for the EB-2 NIW Visa?
To increase your chances of qualifying for the EB-2 NIW, it is highly recommended that you seek the advice of a professional specializing in immigration. These experts can help you gather the necessary documents, prepare your case and provide guidance on the process.
But how much does the EB-2 NIW visa cost?
The cost of obtaining the EB-2 NIW visa involves various fees and expenses. Here are some of the main costs associated with this visa:
- Petition fee (Form I-140): Currently, the petition fee for Form I-140 is $700.
- Premium processing fee (optional): If you wish to speed up the processing of your case, you can opt for the premium processing service, which requires the payment of an additional fee of $2,500.
- Adjustment of status fee (if you are already in the USA): If you are already in the United States and apply for adjustment of status to obtain a green card, you will need to pay the adjustment of status fee, which is $1,225 for adults and $750 for children under 14.
In addition to these fees, it is important to consider other costs, such as hiring an immigration lawyer to help you with the process, document translation and notarization costs, medical document issuance fees and other costs related to obtaining certain documents necessary for the process.
It is essential to remember that the amounts mentioned are subject to change and it is always advisable to check the latest fees on the official website of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Is it worth getting the EB-2 Visa? Why?
Yes, obtaining the EB-2 NIW Visa can be worthwhile for many highly qualified professionals. Here are some reasons why this visa can be an excellent choice:
- Professional independence: The EB-2 NIW offers the advantage of not being dependent on a specific job offer in the United States. This means you have the freedom to work on different projects, change jobs or even start your own business. This professional independence is extremely valuable for many talented professionals who want to have control over their career.
- Growth opportunities: The United States is known for its entrepreneurial environment and variety of thriving economic sectors. By obtaining the EB-2 NIW, you can take advantage of the numerous opportunities for professional growth available in the country. In addition, with the Green Card, you will have access to social benefits, such as health insurance and social security, and you will be able to enjoy the stability and security of a permanent residence.
- Flexibility for the family: The EB-2 NIW also offers benefits for your family. Your spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21 can be included in your application and will also receive a green card, allowing them to enjoy the same rights and opportunities in the United States.
- Access to a competitive job market: The United States has one of the most competitive and diverse job markets in the world. With the EB-2 NIW, you’ll have the opportunity to work for leading companies, renowned academic institutions, cutting-edge research centers and much more. This allows you to be part of a broad, high-level professional network, opening doors to collaborations, partnerships and unique career opportunities.
- Pathway to citizenship: By obtaining a green card through the EB-2 NIW, you will be well on your way to applying for U.S. citizenship after meeting the residency requirements. U.S. citizenship offers a number of additional benefits, such as the ability to vote, apply for a U.S. passport and enjoy all the rights and privileges of a U.S. citizen.
Remember that each case is unique and the benefits of the EB-2 NIW may vary depending on individual circumstances. It is highly recommended that you seek specialized professional immigration advice to evaluate your options and determine if the EB-2 NIW is the right choice for you.
The EB-2 NIW is an excellent option for highly qualified professionals who wish to immigrate to the United States without a specific job offer. With the benefits of a green card, professional independence and countless opportunities for growth, this visa can be the path to a better life in the United States. If you have exceptional skills and believe that your presence would be in the national interest, consult an immigration professional for more information and to start the EB-2 NIW application process. The American dream may be closer than you think!
We hope this guide has clarified your doubts about the EB-2 NIW. If you need more information or would like to start the process, please contact the team at Garreta Law, which specializes in immigration to the United States.
References:
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
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