NIW: A Path to Permanent Residency Without Employer Sponsorship
For Foreign Professionals Who Will Benefit the United States
What is a National Interest Waiver (NIW)?
A National Interest Waiver (NIW) is a unique option for foreign nationals to apply for U.S. permanent residency (Green Card) without the need for an employer sponsor. Designed for professionals with exceptional skills or advanced degrees, the NIW allows individuals to bypass the typical requirement of a job offer if they can prove that their work will significantly benefit the United States.
Eligibility Requirements for an NIW
To qualify for a National Interest Waiver, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:
EB-2 Visa Category Qualification
You must first qualify under the EB-2 visa category, which is designated for professionals with advanced degrees or individuals with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business.
Advanced Degree or Exceptional Ability
Applicants must hold an advanced degree (such as a Master’s, Ph.D., or post-baccalaureate degree), or a Bachelor’s degree with at least five years of progressive work experience. Exceptional ability in a relevant field can also qualify for the EB-2 category.
Demonstrated Benefit to the U.S.
You must provide compelling evidence that your work will substantially benefit the United States. This can include letters of recommendation, awards, recognition of your achievements, and a clear explanation of how your expertise will contribute to the national interest.
Benefits of a National Interest Waiver (NIW)
No Employer Sponsorship Required
Unlike other employment-based visa options, the NIW allows you to apply for a Green Card without the need for a U.S. employer to sponsor your petition.
Direct Path to Permanent Residency
The NIW offers a streamlined process for obtaining a Green Card, bypassing the labor certification process that many employment-based applicants face.
Flexibility in Employment
With an NIW, you are not tied to a specific employer or job, giving you the freedom to continue your work or research while pursuing permanent residency.
Why We’re the Right Choice.
Multilingual Support
English, Spanish, French - whatever your language, we speak it fluently.
Personalized Service
You’re not just a case number. We treat your story like it’s the only one that matters.
Experienced Attorneys
We’ve seen it all—there’s no immigration mess too big for us to handle.
Why Choose Campos Law Firm?
Proven Success in NIW Cases
Our team has a track record of successfully helping professionals in various fields secure NIWs and obtain permanent residency in the U.S.
Personalized Legal Strategy
We understand that every case is unique, and we provide personalized legal support to build the strongest possible case for your NIW petition.
Comprehensive Guidance
From evaluating your qualifications to handling the complex paperwork, we’re with you every step of the way to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
Trusted by many. Our affiliations and certifications show we’re serious about what we do—and we’re good at it.
How We Work
Initial Consultation
We begin with a thorough consultation to evaluate your qualifications for an NIW, including your educational background, experience, and field of expertise.
Evidence Collection
Our team assists in gathering all necessary documentation, including letters of recommendation, awards, and any other evidence that showcases your qualifications and contributions to your field.
Petition Preparation and Submission
We carefully prepare and submit your petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), ensuring it is complete, accurate, and well-supported with all required documentation.
Ongoing Legal Support
Throughout the NIW process, we provide ongoing support and guidance, addressing any questions or concerns you may have and helping you navigate potential challenges.
Let us be there for you.
Success Stories: Real Clients, Real Results
Our clients have trusted us to guide them through the NIW process, and we’ve helped them achieve permanent residency in the U.S. Read their stories and learn how Campos Law Firm has helped professionals from around the world secure their futures.
NIW FAQs
What is a National Interest Waiver (NIW)?
An NIW is a visa option that allows foreign professionals to apply for a Green Card without employer sponsorship if they can prove that their work substantially benefits the United States.
Who qualifies for an NIW?
To qualify, you must meet the criteria for an EB-2 visa, which includes having an advanced degree or exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business, and demonstrate that your work benefits the U.S.
What evidence do I need to provide for an NIW petition?
Common forms of evidence include letters of recommendation, awards, proof of expertise, and a statement explaining how your work benefits the national interest of the U.S.
Can I apply for an NIW without a job offer?
Yes, the NIW allows you to apply for a Green Card without an employer sponsor or job offer, as long as you can demonstrate your qualifications and the national interest of your work.
How long does it take to process an NIW petition?
Processing times vary, but it generally takes several months for the USCIS to review and make a decision on your NIW petition.