Unlocking Success with EB2 NIW: Insider Tips for a Compelling Petition

The Employment-based second preference-2 National Interest Waiver (EB2-NIW) is one of the five sub-categories under the employment-based category in which a professional can file and secure United States permanent residence. National Interest means the petitioner/individual wants the United States to forgo the requirement for a job and labor certificate and approve their petition for permanent residence. For the USCIS to forgo these requirements, the petitioner/individual must demonstrate several things;

1. The petitioner/individual must demonstrate an advanced degree or exceptional ability in their field. A master’s and Doctor of Medicine (MD) are examples of advanced degrees. The petitioner can also claim exceptional ability by demonstrating that they have at least three of the six requirements, which are official academic record, at least 10 years of work experience, professional license, evidence that the petitioner commands a high salary, professional membership and recognitions of achievement and contribution to the industry.
2. The application packet must include a cover letter/personal statement where the petitioner outlines their proposed endeavor. The letter must be clear on the problem the petitioner intends to solve and how the petitioner plan to solve the problem. In addition, the letter must explain how the petitioner would contribute to a particular field or industry in the United States.
3. The success of EB2-NIW petition depends on providing supporting evidence to support one’s claim. The USCIS looks for evidence demonstrating accomplishments in one’s field, such as publications, a record of citations, patents, recommendation letters from experts in one’s field, research grants, awards, funds from angel investors, licenses, and membership in professional societies.
4. A petitioner must show that their work and proposed endeavor would benefit the United States in a field, such as technology, healthcare, science, and national security, even if United States workers are available for the job.

In conclusion, the applicant must lay down his/her points in a layperson’s language so that the adjudicating officer can easily understand the proposed endeavor. Also, avoid the use of bogus words and unsubstantiated claims. Keep your cover letter brief, straightforward, and concise. A 20-page with 1.15 line spacing seems decent; the shorter, the better. You will submit a compelling petition if you support your argument with evidence and write a convincing recommendation letter.