EB-2 Visa
The EB-2 Visa is an employment-based, second-preference immigrant visa category for individuals who possess advanced degrees or exceptional abilities in their field. This visa category allows eligible foreign nationals to obtain a green card and permanent residency in the United States. The EB-2 Visa is ideal for professionals who have significant experience and expertise in fields such as science, arts, business, and education.
Key Categories of the EB-2 Visa
Partnering with Glocal ensures you benefit from our extensive experience and knowledge in U.S. immigration law, maximizing your chances of a successful EB-2 Visa application. Whether you are an advanced degree professional, an individual with exceptional abilities, or someone contributing to the national interest, we are here to help you achieve your U.S. immigration goals.
EB-2A: Advanced Degree Professionals
- Eligibility: Applicants must have an advanced degree (master’s or higher) or a bachelor’s degree plus five years of progressive work experience in their field.
- Job Offer Requirement: A job offer from a U.S. employer is generally required, along with labor certification to demonstrate that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position.
EB-2B: Exceptional Ability
- Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate exceptional ability in their field, significantly above that ordinarily encountered.
- Criteria: Evidence such as letters of reference, awards, membership in professional associations, and documentation of achievements is required.
- Job Offer Requirement: Like the EB-2A, this category typically requires a job offer and labor certification unless applying for a National Interest Waiver.
EB-2C: National Interest Waiver (NIW)
- Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate that their work benefits the national interest of the United States, allowing them to waive the job offer and labor certification requirements.
- Criteria: The applicant must show that their work has substantial intrinsic merit, the proposed endeavor is of national importance, and they are well-positioned to advance the proposed endeavor.
- Self-Petition: Applicants can self-petition without employer sponsorship if they qualify for the NIW.
Benefits of the EB-2 Visa
No Cap
Permanent Residency
Advanced Degree and Exceptional Ability Recognition
National Interest Waiver
Application Process for the EB-2 Visa
Labor Certification (PERM)
Requirement: The U.S. employer must obtain a labor certification from the Department of Labor, certifying that there are no qualified U.S. workers available for the position and that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect U.S. workers’ wages and working conditions.
National Interest Waiver: Applicants qualifying for the NIW do not require labor certification.
Petition Filing
Form I-140: The employer or applicant (in the case of NIW) must file Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Supporting Documentation: The petition must include evidence of the applicant’s qualifications and eligibility under the EB-2 category.
Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
Adjustment of Status: If the applicant is already in the U.S., they can file Form I-485 to adjust their status to permanent resident once the I-140 is approved.
Consular Processing: If the applicant is outside the U.S., they will apply for an immigrant visa through a U.S. consulate.
Expert Guidance Ensuring Smooth Process
Glocal’s EB-2 Visa Consulting Services
At Glocal, we offer expert EB-2 Visa consulting services to guide applicants through the complex application process. Our services include:
Eligibility Assessment
We evaluate your credentials and employment situation to determine eligibility for the EB-2 category and advise on the best approach.
Document Preparation and Filing
Our team assists in gathering and preparing all necessary documentation and filing Form I-140 and Form I-485.
National Interest Waiver Guidance
We provide strategic advice on applying for an NIW, helping you build a compelling case for waiving the job offer and labor certification requirements.
Interview Preparation
Our experts offer guidance on consular interviews and address any concerns or questions that may arise.
Post-Approval Support
We continue to support our clients after approval, including advice on maintaining permanent residency status and potential paths to citizenship.