EB-2 Immigrant Visa

The EB-2 visa is a U.S. immigrant visa designed for individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities in their field. This visa allows qualified individuals to live and work permanently in the United States. Here’s what you need to know about the EB-2 visa:

Key Features of the EB-2 Visa:

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for the EB-2 visa, applicants must meet one of the following:

• Exceptional Ability: Individuals must demonstrate significant achievements in their field, such as awards, publications, or membership in prestigious professional associations.
  
  
• Advanced Degree: Applicants must possess a master’s degree (or higher) or an equivalent in a specific field relevant to their employment.
  
  

Labor Certification:

In most cases, EB-2 visa applicants require a labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), proving that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position.

National Interest Waiver (NIW):

Some EB-2 applicants may qualify for a National Interest Waiver (NIW), which waives the requirement for a job offer and labor certification if the applicant’s work is deemed to be in the national interest of the United States.

Priority Date:

EB-2 visas are subject to annual numerical limits, so applicants may need to wait for their priority date to become current before applying for permanent residency.

Green Card Process:

Once the EB-2 petition is approved, applicants can apply for lawful permanent residency (green card) through adjustment of status if they are already in the U.S., or through consular processing if they are outside the U.S.

Dependents:

EB-2 visa holders’ spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old can accompany them to the U.S. under the derivative E-21 and E-22 visa categories.

Employment Mobility:

EB-2 visa holders may change employers after obtaining their green card, as long as the new position is in the same or similar occupational category as the original job offer.