The United States has long benefited from the strong influence of Israeli professionals who choose to bring their technological innovations to the American market. Although there are various immigration pathways, in this article we would like to draw your attention to a very interesting option, EB-2 NIW green card, especially suitable to scientists, researchers and entrepreneurs looking to relocate with their family and hoping for a long term relocation, as EB-2 NIW is a green card.
This article offers valuable insights, but it should not be considered legal advice. For personalized guidance regarding your immigration situation, we recommend consulting an immigration attorney.
Why is the EB-2 NIW a great option?
- No Employer Sponsorship Needed
- Flexibility of the field of expertise - academia, startups, industry, or research.
- Fast-Track for STEM Professionals – US policies favor experts in science and innovation, leading to shorter processing times.
- Permanent Residency for You & Your Family – A green card allows you to build your future in the U.S.
Example: Many Israeli researchers at institutions like the Weizmann Institute of Science or Technion work on groundbreaking cancer treatments, AI security, or climate solutions—all of which align with the US’s national interest.
Who Qualifies for the EB-2 NIW Green Card?
Professionals with:
- Advanced Degree: Applicants must have an advanced degree in their field, such as a master's degree, baccalaureate degree plus at least 5 years of relevant work experience.
- Exceptional Ability: If scientists do not have advanced degrees, they can still qualify by showing they possess "exceptional abilities" in their field.
And those who can present the project that will impact the U.S.
How to Prove Your Work Benefits the U.S.?
The National Interest Waiver is granted when your work:
✔ Solves a critical issue in science, health, or national security.✔ Creates new advancements in technology, AI, or medicine.✔ Supports US economic growth or scientific progress.
Fields That Often Qualify:- Medical research & biotechnology- Artificial intelligence & cybersecurity- Renewable energy & agritech- Advanced engineering & nanotechnology
Example: A scientist developing AI-driven cybersecurity solutions could argue that their work strengthens U.S. national security, making them a strong EB-2 NIW candidate.
EB-2 NIW Application Process
Applying for the EB-2 NIW may seem complicated, as it requires strong evidence of your qualifications and impact.
Here’s what you need to do, step by step:
Step 1: Find an attorney that specializes in EB-2 NIW applications
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
- Diplomas, transcripts, and foreign degree evaluations.
- Proof of publications, patents, awards, or research grants.
- Strong recommendation letters from respected experts in your field.
- Documents showing how your work benefits the U.S. economy, public health, or national security.
Step 3: Submit Your Petition
- File Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) with USCIS.
- Include a personal statement explaining why your work is in the national interest.
- Pay the filing fee.
- You can consider Premium Processing for faster results—USCIS processes EB-2 NIW petitions within 45 days with this service.
One common mistake is not clearly showing how your work helps the US. Be sure to explain it well in your statement and recommendation letters.
Step 4: Await USCIS Approval
- Processing takes 6–12 months (varies by case).Unless you choose to submit your case with premium processing.
- USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE), but there’s no need to worry—it’s a common part of the process. Respond promptly with strong supporting documents.
- Once your I-140 is approved, you can apply for your green card by filing Form I-485 for Adjustment of Status if you are in the U.S., or Form DS-260 for Consular Processing if you are applying from outside the U.S. If applying from abroad, you may also need to attend an interview at a U.S. consulate.
How Can You Strengthen an EB-2 NIW Case?
- Show Real-World Impact – Highlight research that directly benefits the US.
- Get Strong Recommendation Letters – Well-written letters can make a big difference.
- Make Your Achievements Clear – Show citations, research grants, or industry recognition.
How Can an Immigration Attorney Help Prove an EB-2 NIW Case?
The hardest part of an EB-2 NIW application is proving that your work benefits the national interest of the U.S. An immigration attorney can help you structure the case, ensuring your research, achievements, and letters of recommendation clearly align with USCIS standards. They know how to frame your impact, highlight key contributions, and avoid common mistakes that could lead to delays. With expert guidance, your petition will be stronger, more compelling, and better positioned for approval.
Why Is the EB-2 NIW a Game-Changer?
The EB-2 NIW offers entrepreneurs, scientists, researchers, and STEM experts a direct path to permanent residency in the US, without the need for employer sponsorship or labor certification. With the U.S. prioritizing scientific innovation and global talent, now is an ideal time to apply. Recent policy updates have made it easier for STEM professionals to qualify under the National Interest Waiver, and Premium Processing now allows petitions to be reviewed in just 45 days. Unlike traditional employment-based visas, the EB-2 NIW lets professionals self-petition, giving them the freedom to pursue research and other career opportunities without being tied to an employer.
This visa isn’t just about working in the U.S. — it provides long-term stability and a clear path to permanent residency for scientists and their families, allowing them to establish a future in one of the world’s top innovation hubs.
This article was written in cooperation with "PassRight"