How to Secure a US Green Card with the EB-2 NIW—No Job Offer Needed
2025-07-17
How to Secure a US Green Card with the EB-2 NIW—No Job Offer Needed
Author: Maya Salazar, JD
Last Update: July 17, 2025
Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- What is an EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW)?
- What are the advantages of the EB-2 NIW?
- Who qualifies for an EB-2 NIW?
- What is the application process for the EB-2 NIW?
- What happens after approval of the EB-2 NIW?
- Book a Free Consultation
Key Takeaways
- The EB-2 NIW lets you apply for a US green card without a job offer or employer sponsor.
- Applicants must have either an advanced degree or exceptional ability, and their work must serve the US national interest.
- The process is self-petitioned, flexible, and has a high approval rate—especially with expert guidance.
- Lexobee’s team has helped hundreds secure green cards through the EB-2 NIW with a 97%+ approval rate.
What is an EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW)?
The EB-2 NIW is a unique US green card pathway for professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability. Unlike most employment-based visas, it does not require an employer sponsor. Instead, you can petition directly if your work is of substantial merit and national importance to the US.
This means immigration officials may waive the job offer and labor certification requirements—allowing you to apply faster and with greater independence.
What are the advantages of the EB-2 NIW?
- No job offer or employer sponsorship required
- Faster processing (bypasses labor certification)
- Full self-petition flexibility
- Permanent residency for you and your family
- Live and work anywhere in the US
The EB-2 NIW is ideal for entrepreneurs, researchers, scientists, artists, and professionals whose work benefits the US.
Who qualifies for an EB-2 NIW?
Eligibility falls into two parts:
1. EB-2 Category: - Advanced degree (master’s or higher, or bachelor’s plus 5 years’ experience) - OR exceptional ability in sciences, arts, or business
2. National Interest Waiver: - Your work must have substantial merit and national importance - You are well-positioned to advance your field - Waiving the job offer/labor cert benefits the US
Evidence may include: - Academic records, awards, licenses, publications - Letters of recommendation - Evidence of impact, funding, patents, or media
“Lexobee’s team made my EB-2 NIW journey seamless. Their expertise and attention to detail gave me confidence at every step. I’m now a permanent resident thanks to their guidance.”
— Dr. S. Banerjee, AI Researcher & Lexobee Client
What is the application process for the EB-2 NIW?
- Prepare your I-140 petition (self-petition, no employer needed)
- Compile supporting evidence (see above)
- Pay the fees (currently $715 for I-140, plus $300 Asylum Program fee)
- File with USCIS (track your case online)
- Await approval (4-6 months standard, or 45 days with premium processing)
Once your I-140 is approved, you can apply for adjustment of status (I-485) if in the US, or consular processing if abroad.
What happens after approval of the EB-2 NIW?
- Apply for permanent residence (I-485 or consular)
- Complete background checks, medical, and biometrics
- Include spouse and children under 21
- Receive your green card and start your new life in the US!
Book a Free Consultation
Ready to explore your EB-2 NIW options? Lexobee’s expert team has a 97%+ approval rate and decades of experience guiding professionals and entrepreneurs to US residency.
Schedule your free consultation to get started.