VISA2US Blog

Our blog is a source of latest immigration news, policy updates and trends for thousands of readers every month.

Deep Diving Into the Three Prongs of NIWs

November 30, 2023
For foreign nationals on a green card path, the wait can be long and arduous. However, if you qualify for an EB-2 National Interest Waiver, the application process is simplified, and the road to permanent resident status is shortened. The only obstacle is that you must qualify using the three prongs of the National Interest Waiver under US immigration law. What are they, and how can you prove that you qualify? We’ll dive deep into them here.

How to Maintain Work Authorization While Awaiting NIW Approval

November 15, 2023
When you’re a foreign national living in the United States, you need permission from the government to obtain work legally. This is given via an EAD or an Employment Authorization Document. Work authorization is the proof an employer needs to hire you, but it isn’t always given to immigrants or foreign nationals. If you’re waiting for a National Interest Waiver or are on another path to a Green Card, and you already have work authorization, keeping it is a precarious thing. Here, we’ll delve into everything you need to know to get or maintain your EAD when you’re waiting for an NIW or Green Card.

More Benefits to the National Interest Waiver (Including H-4 Spouses' Right to Work)

October 16, 2023
The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is a top-tier under the Employment-Based Second Preference (EB-2) visa category. It permits the holder to live and work in the United States without a job sponsor. Qualifying for this coveted document is challenging as the applicant must prove that they are highly skilled or have an exceptional ability that makes them of particular national interest. As with all immigration regulations, the requirements and benefits of the NIW adapt to the needs of society, and recent changes may benefit spouses under an H-4 visa should they seek work. We’ll explain those and the other must-know details here.

Can an F-1 Or J-1 Visa Holder File for a National Interest Waiver?

September 18, 2023
Getting a green card is a dream for millions of foreign nationals worldwide, but the application process is challenging and time-consuming. It helps when you have multiple avenues open to you because then you can choose the category with the least wait time, but that’s not always possible. The National Interest Waiver is one of the shortest routes to permanent residency. However, proving to the US government that your skills and work are of the utmost national importance isn’t easy, regardless of your occupation. In this article, we’ll discuss how F-1 and J-1 scholars, postdocs, and researchers can optimize their chances of approval for this coveted NIW document.

Thinking About a Green Card? Consider the National Interest Waiver Route

September 6, 2023
As a highly skilled professional wishing to work in the US and obtain a green card, you have various options available to you. While most people use the general route of an H-1B visa, there are limitations to this that may not be suitable for you. When you have an advanced degree or an exceptional ability in your field, an EB-2 National Interest Waiver can let you skip the strict requirements of a job offer and other hurdles involved in those visa petitions and propel you to the front line for a green card. We’ll explain how this works in this short blog.

What to Include in Your Physician NIW Attestation Letter Request

September 1, 2023
National Interest Waivers are an ideal way for individuals to skip the job sponsor requirement of a foreign work visa. However, qualifying for these coveted documents can be challenging as you must meet rigorous criteria.

FAQs for the National Interest Waiver

July 31, 2023
The United States offers several avenues for foreign nationals to work and live within its borders. One such option is the National Interest Waiver (NIW.) The NIW can open doors to exciting opportunities in the U.S. However, it is a complex process that requires a thorough understanding in order to successfully secure a visa. This blog post addresses some frequent questions about the NIW and provides valuable tips for a successful application. Our FAQ format will answer your most pressing questions and provide clarity on whether this option is suitable for you.

Clearing Up the Confusion Regarding NIW Visas for Commercial Pilots

July 24, 2023
In early 2022, news hit the aviation world that foreign pilots could qualify for the United States National Interest Waivers. That information prompted hundreds of thousands of commercial pilots to petition for waivers, spending large amounts of money on legal fees and hoping their time and financial expenses would pay off. But many of these cases were rejected. What’s the truth behind NIW visas and commercial pilots? We explain the difference between successful and rejected petitions here.

Getting a National Interest Waiver in the STEM Field

July 19, 2023
For decades, the United States has had a reputation of striving to be the best of the best. In the 21st century, this definition often comes hand in hand with creating innovative, cutting-edge technology. But the immigration policy is restrictive and challenging, making it difficult to land the top talent while awaiting H-1B lottery policies and other obstacles. However, if you qualify for a National Interest Waiver, your job in the STEM field could help you skip the long wait and obtain a visa that propels you to the front of the line of foreign workers entering the US.

Do You Need an EB-2, or Should You Go for an NIW?

July 18, 2023
Moving to the United States, temporarily or permanently, is a goal for millions worldwide. One way to do this is to obtain a work visa that allows the beneficiary to live and reside in the country for limited periods. Two of the most popular work visas are the H-1B and the EB-2. However, both of these employment-based green card avenues have long, cumbersome processes with no guarantee of success. On the other hand, a National Interest Waiver, which is a step up from the EB-2, lets the holder skip the wait and head to the front of the green card queue. Which of these avenues is best for you? Read on to learn the differences between an EB-2 and an NIW.
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