EB2 Visa: Exceptional Abilities or Advanced Degrees

The EB2 visa is a highly advantageous immigration pathway for individuals with exceptional abilities or advanced degrees, enabling eligible applicants to secure a U.S. green card (permanent residency) through a job offer from a U.S.-based employer.

EB2 Visa Overview

The EB2 visa provides a path to permanent residency for those with exceptional abilities or advanced degrees. This second-preference employment visa is divided into three main categories.

EB2-A: For advanced degree holders
EB2-B: For individuals with exceptional ability
EB2-C: National Interest Waiver (benefiting the U.S.)

Key Facts

Allocation: 28.6% of total employment-based visas (approximately 40,000 annually)
Country limit: 7% of EB2 visas per country
No priority filing time: Applications are accepted anytime, with visas granted monthly
High demand: Longer wait times for nationals of countries with many applicants

Important Notes

Visa availability generally exceeds demand, leading to waitlists.
There is no tactical advantage to applying at specific times, as all applications are prioritized by date.

Advantages of the EB2 Visa

Legal Permanent Residency

In-state college tuition rates
Simplified travel
Immigration status stability
Pathway to potential U.S. citizenship

Efficient Process

The EB2 visa provides a relatively expedited path to permanent residency compared to other employment pathways.

Family Benefits

Immediate family members are eligible to join the primary visa holder in the U.S.
Spouse: Eligible for E-21 status and can work in the U.S.
Unmarried children under 21: Eligible for E-22 status, with access to U.S. schooling.

Requirements for an EB2 Visa

Requirements vary based on the EB2 category. Our team can help determine your eligibility.

EB2-A (Advanced Degree)

Possess an advanced degree (master’s or higher) or equivalent.
Alternatively, hold a bachelor’s degree plus five years of progressive work experience.
Have a valid U.S. job offer in the field related to your advanced degree.
Job duties should align with your academic and professional experience.

EB2-B (Exceptional Ability)

To demonstrate exceptional ability in sciences, arts, or business, applicants must meet at least three criteria, such as:

Academic degree in the field
10+ years of full-time experience
License/certificate to practice in the field
Salary indicative of exceptional ability
Professional association membership or expert recognition
Valid Job Offer Requirement: A U.S. job offer in the field of exceptional ability is necessary.

National Interest (EB2-C)

Applicants must show that granting the EB2 visa would significantly benefit the United States, underscoring the applicant’s potential to contribute positively.

Key Distinctions for NIW

No job offer required
No sponsor necessary (self-petitioning allowed)
No PERM labor certification is required

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EB2 Visa