National Interest Waiver

The National Interest Waiver or NIW is part of the second employment-based category (EB-2) for aliens of exceptional ability in sciences, arts or business and advanced degreed professionals. In order to be considered an alien of exceptional ability, the USCIS regulations require that at least three of the following types of evidence be established:

(a) An official academic record showing that the alien has a degree, diploma, certificate, or similar award from a college, university, school, or other institution of learning relating to the area of exceptional ability;

(b) Evidence in the form of letters from current or former employers showing that the alien has at least ten years of full-time experience in the occupation for which he or she is sought;

(c) A license to practice the profession or certification for a particular profession or occupation;

(d) Evidence that the alien has commanded a salary, or other remuneration for services, which demonstrates exceptional ability

(e) Evidence of membership in professional associations;

(f) Evidence of recognition for achievements and significant contributions to the industry or field by peers, governmental entities, or professional or business associations.

Someone who meets three of these requirements or has an advanced degree and has a job offer from a U.S. employer can process a labor certification under the EB-2 category. However, someone who qualifies for the National Interest Waiver is deemed to be of such value to the United States that he/she is neither required to process a labor certification nor have a job offer.

What are its major advantages?

The National Interest Waiver has the obvious advantage that a U.S. sponsor is not required. The applicant sponsors herself/himself based upon his/her outstanding achievements and professional knowledge. Consequently, the applicant controls her/his own fate. Furthermore, by avoiding the labor certification process substantial time can be saved in the processing of the petition.