The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) visa is one of the most sought-after US immigration pathways for professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability.
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EB-2 Visa Categories
- Advanced Degree Professionals: Individuals holding a US advanced degree (or foreign equivalent) with a job offer requiring an advanced degree.
- Exceptional Ability: Individuals demonstrating exceptional ability in science, arts, or business — defined as a degree of expertise significantly above that ordinarily encountered in their field.
The NIW exempts both groups from the standard labour certification requirement when work is in the US national interest.
Processing Times (2026)
- I-140 Premium Processing: 15 business days (fee: $2,805)
- I-140 Standard Processing: 8–16 months
- Adjustment of Status (I-485): 12–36 months depending on country of birth and visa bulletin
- Consular Processing: 12–24 months from I-140 approval to immigrant visa interview
Country-Specific Notes
India and China face significant EB-2 backlogs. Nationals from most other countries including Nigeria typically find current priority dates available immediately or with minimal wait.
Cost Summary
- I-140 filing fee: $715 (standard) / $3,520 (with premium processing)
- I-485 Adjustment of Status: $1,440 (includes biometrics)
- Attorney fees: $3,000–$8,000 (varies widely)
EB-2 NIW three-prong test explained | General US immigration guidance
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