ALL-VISAS · INDEPENDENT ELIGIBILITY SERVICE NOT A GOVERNMENT SITE · NOT LEGAL ADVICE
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EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver)

talent · United States

EB-2 NIW waives the job-offer and PERM requirements when the foreign national's work is in the US national interest. Must first qualify for EB-2: either advanced-degree professional (US master's or foreign equivalent, OR US bachelor's + 5 yrs progressive post-bachelor's experience) OR exceptional ability (≥ 3 of 6 criteria). Then satisfy the Matter of Dhanasar three-prong test: substantial merit + national importance; well positioned to advance the endeavor; on balance, beneficial to waive the job-offer/PERM requirement. Premium processing 45 business days for NIW. Self-petition allowed.

Minimum stay / validity
Permanent residence
Processing time
Premium 45 business days
Official source
https://www.uscis.gov/working-in-the-united-states/permanent-workers/employment-based-immigration-second-preference-eb-2
Last verified
May 2026

Requirements & criteria

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