The EB2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) is a category within the Employment-Based Second Preference visa program that allows foreign nationals with exceptional abilities or advanced degrees to bypass the labor certification process. This means that applicants do not need a job offer or a specific employer sponsor to apply for the EB2 NIW.
To qualify for the EB2 NIW, applicants must demonstrate that their work is in the national interest of the United States. This can be achieved by showing that their work has substantial merit and national importance, that they are well-positioned to advance their work, and that it would be beneficial to the United States to waive the job offer requirement.
The time frame for processing an EB2 NIW petition can vary. On average, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year for the petition to be processed. However, it’s important to note that processing times can be subject to change and may vary depending on the workload of the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services).
It’s also worth mentioning that premium processing, which guarantees a 15-day processing time, is not available for EB2 NIW petitions. This means that applicants will have to wait for the standard processing time to receive a decision on their petition.
Overall, the EB2 NIW provides a pathway for highly skilled individuals to contribute to the national interest of the United States. While the processing time may vary, the opportunity to obtain permanent residency without a job offer or employer sponsor makes it an attractive option for many qualified individuals.