VISA2US Blog

Part of the visa application process includes verifying your identity. For initial visas like the H-1B category and for green cards, that includes a biometrics screening. While it might sound like advanced artificial intelligence, this is simply an appointment during which the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) collects a record of your fingerprints and takes a picture of you to cross-reference the information with the FBI database and the Department of Homeland Security. Provided you don’t have a criminal record or any run-ins with the immigration department, this is a simple step. What should you know before you go to prepare for your biometrics appointment? We’ll give you the details here.

The USCIS policy memo has adjusted the language of several EB1A regulatory criteria, in some cases rendering these criteria more readily applicable to our clients.

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.

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.

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.

The premise behind national interest waivers is that the applicant may be essential to the US government. Therefore, there’s a misconception surrounding this visa document that only scholars fit that criteria. However, the government recognizes that performing arts are essential to the overall economy and satisfaction of the country. Over the years, legislation has evolved to include performers as an area of specialization. How can a performer claim national interest? Read on to understand what’s required in these unique situations.

The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is a valuable opportunity for foreign nationals who wish to work and reside in the United States without enduring the traditional route of employer sponsorship. An NIW allows certain qualified foreigners to bypass the standard Labor Certification requirement in obtaining a green card. It is designed for those who possess exceptional ability in their field and whose work benefits the nation's interests. Unfortunately, misconceptions surrounding the waiver often lead to confusion and unrealistic expectations. This blog post will debunk six common myths to help you understand whether you qualify for an NIW.

Artists play a significant role in our society, enriching our lives through creative expression. However, obtaining the necessary work visa to pursue their careers in the United States can be a daunting task. Many artists face the challenge of meeting the stringent requirements for a National Interest Waiver (NIW.) In this blog post, we'll explore whether it's possible for an artist to obtain an NIW and the steps they can take to increase their chances of success. So if you're an artist looking to bring your talent and skills to the United States, keep reading to learn more!

Applicants for a work visa face a long, challenging process before their petitions are approved. Part of the delay includes finding a qualified employer to extend a job offer, then waiting for that sponsor to obtain approval from the Department of Labor (DOL) through the job certification process. Yet, when an individual has exceptional ability in fields such as science, business, arts, or an advanced degree profession, they may qualify to skip sponsorship and the subsequent wait time through the National Interest Waiver (NIW) path. For most people, the industry itself isn’t as important as the case they present to USCIS, and we’ll explain how to develop solid evidence to support your NIW plea here.

The H-1B and certain other categories of visas are designed to bring skilled workers into the United States to fill specialty job positions. However, these workers must meet strict requirements, such as a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited university. Those applying for an advanced degree exemption typically have a bachelor’s and a master’s or beyond that must qualify as accredited. Hopeful H-1B petitioners need to verify that their institutions are from an accrediting agency, but recent changes in the US Department of Education have dropped an important one. The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) is no longer recognized, meaning substantial impacts for H-1B and certain F-1 student visa holders.