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Employment-Based (EB-2) Visa and National Interest Waiver (NIW)

One of the several visa classifications for foreign residents with exceptional ability or advanced degrees is the EB-2 Visa. This visa is employment-based and offers permanent residency for successful applicants. There is, however, a cap on this type of visa, making the selection process extremely competitive. Nonetheless, it is a viable solution for many employers and applicants. This blog will lay out the general requirements and options under the EB-2 visa classification.

Prerequisites for EB-2 Applicants

With a notable exception (explained below), applicants must have a job offer waiting for them in the U.S. and a certificate verifying they are eligible for labor in the U.S. An applicant’s prospective employer will submit Form I-140 to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). 

EB-2 Sub-Categories

There are two official sub-categories of EB-2 visas, and they are straightforward:

1. Exceptional Ability. Any individuals who have shown an exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business will pursue this sub-category to attain an EB-2 visa. In order to prove that you belong in the exceptional ability sub-category, you must show at least three of the following:

  • Academic certification, degree, or diploma
  • Documents showing you have at least 10 years of work experience in your field
  • You hold a license that allows you to work in your chosen profession
  • Evidence that shows you have drawn a salary in your field of work
  • Membership in one or more professional associations
  • Recognition by your government, peers, or professional associations
  • Any other “comparable evidence of eligibility”

2. Advanced Degree. This sub-category requires successful applicants to have an advanced degree for the job position or a baccalaureate degree (or foreign equivalent) plus five years of “progressive” work experience in your chosen profession. Documents required to show that you have the academic qualifications are your actual certificate or diploma and letters from your employer (if you don’t have an advanced degree). 

National Interest Waiver and EB-2 Visas

For certain applicants pursuing one of the two sub-categories, a National Interest Waiver (NIW) makes sense to apply for. A labor certification is not required in this situation. NIW applicants may handle the application process without an employer’s help. Generally, for an NIW application to be successful, you must show that your “proposed endeavor has both substantial merit and national importance” and that it is in the best interests of the U.S. to waive the labor-certification requirement. 

Conclusion

The EB-2 visa, due to its annual limit, is an extremely difficult visa to obtain. You need the help of an experienced and knowledgeable immigration attorney to help ensure that you are well-positioned for success. Contact RelisLaw through our website here to receive a free 10-minute phone evaluation.

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We help people from around the world to live and work freely in the U.S., to achieve their dreams, unite families, or escape persecution. No matter what immigration service you need, RelisLaw will provide caring and dependable counsel to you and aggressive advocacy to vigorously fight for you using every available legal avenue. As a global firm, we work with people in countries around the world. We meet clients across the U.S., as well as in New York, Toronto, and Montréal. We also meet with clients globally, located in any country, via Skype and other platforms.
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E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Requirements: A Definitive Guide for Business Owners and Managers - RelisLaw

E-2 Treaty Investor Visa: Comprehensive Guide for Business Owners

U.S. Investment Opportunity: The E-2 Visa

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The **E-2 Treaty Investor Visa** is a non-immigrant classification for foreign nationals investing a substantial amount of capital in a bona fide U.S. business. At RelisLaw, we specialize in maximizing the approval chances for **E-2 Visa Business Entrepreneurs and Managers**.

The E-2 visa allows investors and their **immediate family** (spouse and unmarried children under 21) to live and work in the United States. Initial approval can grant residency for up to **5 years** and is indefinitely renewable as long as the business meets the requirements. This visa is explicitly designed to spur **foreign investment and economic development** in the U.S.

DOWNLOAD: YOUR STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO E-2 VISA SUCCESS

RelisLaw provides the **solid, detailed guidance** you can rely on to build your strongest E-2 Application and successfully secure your future in the USA!

Since 2016, our clients worldwide have chosen RelisLaw, not only for our **meticulous work and consistent Approvals** but also for the continuous support we provide to help them achieve their dreams of working in the U.S.

Be prepared to discuss your **business plan, investment sources, and management role** in detail during your application process. Upon E-2 visa approval, you will receive authorization to start working in your approved U.S. business right away!

E-2 Treaty Investor Visa Eligibility Summary

E-2 Requirement Category Core Eligibility Criteria Definition of Investment
**Applicant & Business** – Must be a **citizen of a U.S. treaty country**.

– Must have already **invested or be actively investing a significant amount** of capital in a legitimate U.S. enterprise.

– The applicant must be coming to the U.S. solely to **develop and direct the enterprise** by having ownership (at least 50%) or a key managerial/executive role.		 – The investment must be **Substantial** relative to the total cost of the business (start-up or purchase).

– Funds must be large enough to demonstrate the investor’s strong **financial commitment** to the business’s success.

– The business must be **Not Marginal** (i.e., not solely created to provide a minimal living income for the investor and family, but must expand employment opportunities in the U.S.).
GET YOUR STEP-BY-STEP E-2 VISA GUIDE NOW
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