Employment-Based Green Card for Professionals with Advanced Degrees or Exceptional Ability
The EB-2 visa is a U.S. immigrant visa designed for foreign nationals who hold advanced degrees or possess exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business. It is part of the second preference employment-based immigration category (EB-2) and offers a pathway to U.S. permanent residency (green card).
There are three main subcategories under the EB-2 visa: 1) EB-2A for professionals with advanced degrees, 2) EB-2B for individuals with exceptional ability, and 3) EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver), which allows individuals to self-petition if their work benefits the national interest of the United States.
Who Qualifies for an EB-2 Visa?
EB-2A – Advanced Degree Professionals
Applicants must have a U.S. advanced degree or a foreign equivalent (master’s or higher), or a bachelor’s degree plus five years of progressive work experience in the field. A permanent job offer and a PERM labor certification from a U.S. employer are generally required.
EB-2B – Individuals with Exceptional Ability
This category is for individuals with a level of expertise significantly above that ordinarily encountered in the sciences, arts, or business. Applicants must meet at least three of the USCIS criteria, such as official academic records, professional recognition, or evidence of significant contributions to their field.
EB-2 NIW – National Interest Waiver
The NIW allows EB-2 applicants to request a waiver of the job offer and PERM requirement if their work is deemed to be in the national interest of the United States. This option is popular among researchers, entrepreneurs, and professionals working in areas like public health, technology, or national security.
EB-2 Visa Eligibility Criteria
- To be eligible for the EB-2 visa, applicants must meet one of the following:
- Hold an advanced degree or its foreign equivalent
- Demonstrate exceptional ability in sciences, arts, or business
- For NIW applicants, show that their work benefits the U.S. national interest
Benefits of the EB-2 Visa
- Priority processing compared to EB-3
- Eligible for green card sponsorship
- Option to self-petition with a National Interest Waiver
- Pathway to U.S. citizenship after obtaining permanent residency
Required Documents for EB-2 Petition
- Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)
- Academic degrees and transcripts
- Letters of experience or recommendation
- Evidence of exceptional ability or achievements
- PERM labor certification (not required for NIW)
Need Help With Your EB-2 Application?
At Exitbase, our expert immigration consultants specialize in preparing
strong EB-1 petitions. Whether you’re a researcher, professor, scientist, or
executive, we help you present your qualifications effectively and meet all
U.S. immigration requirements.
Book your free consultation today and let us help you take the next step in your U.S. immigration journey.
