EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) SELF-PETITION Green Card

Pathway to Self-Petition for a Green Card

• The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) is a powerful pathway  for professionals who can show their work significantly benefits the United States. Unlike most green card categories, the NIW allows self-petitioning — no job offer or labor certification is required.

At Kennedy Law, we work with researchers, physicians, entrepreneurs, and professionals across industries to craft NIW petitions that align with your long-term immigration goals.

To qualify for an EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW), applicants typically demonstrate EB-2 eligibility through one of the following:

• Advanced Degree: Master’s or higher (or a bachelor’s degree + 5 years of progressive experience)
• Exceptional Ability: Proven expertise significantly above what is typically encountered in your field.
   

Building on that foundation, a strong NIW case also shows, under the Matter of Dhanasar framework:

1. Your work has substantial merit and national importance.
2. You are well-positioned to advance your endeavor.
3. On balance, the U.S. benefits from waiving the job offer and labor certification.

Many clients pursue an EB-2 visa through the National Interest Waiver (NIW) while holding a temporary visa (F-1, H-1B, J-1, O-1). The EB-2 NIW category allows dual intent, meaning you can plan your future self-petition green card without abandoning your current work authorization.

 We Build NIW Cases For:

• Researchers & Academics – Scholars with significant publications, citations, grants, peer recognition, or other evidence of measurable academic impact.
• Physicians & Healthcare Innovators – Doctors serving in shortage areas, public health leaders, and medical professionals introducing innovations with broad national importance.
• STEM Professionals & Policy Experts – Specialists addressing U.S.-based challenges in science, technology, data, or public-interest policy.
• Entrepreneurs & Founders – Innovators building scalable ventures that generate substantial social benefit or advance the national interest.
• Artists & Creatives – Individuals whose work strengthens civic, cultural, or educational initiatives with demonstrated national relevance.

NIW cases require more than impressive credentials — they demand a compelling narrative, a forward-looking strategy, and carefully presented evidence. A strong NIW petition weaves together both story and proof, showing how your work advances U.S. priorities today and demonstrates your ability to continue making an impact.

At Kennedy Law, we highlight not only your qualifications but also the national importance of your work, ensuring the petition is persuasive under current USCIS standards. Common evidence may include: 

• Peer-reviewed publications and citation metrics.
• Grants, funding records, or institutional support.
• Letters of recommendation from independent experts.
• Evidence of national or international recognition.
• Documentation of past and ongoing U.S. impact.
• Media coverage, awards, or conference leadership roles.

We offer a free qualification evaluation for EB-1A and EB-2 NIW. 

To get started, email TK@KennedyVisas.com and request the evaluation questionnaire. 

If you have a significant number of published articles, a strong record of citations, a Ph.D. in your field of expertise, and specific research or projects that benefit the United States, you may be an excellent candidate for these immigration pathways. 

Contact our office today to see if you qualify for this route.