EB-2 NIW GREEN CARD Immigration Legal services
Be more flexible. Have less time pressure. Don’t be controlled by your employer. Get a green card faster. The EB-2 NIW is a fast-track for those whose work is of national importance.
+13%
48.1% of EB-2 NIW petitions approved, up from 42.5% the previous quarter*
The EB-2 NIW approval rate has increased by 13% since Q1 2026, up to 48.1% in Q2 vs 42.6% in Q1.
A high approval rate does not mean approval is automatic. These cases are still reviewed closely, and the outcome depends on the strength of your evidence and how well your file is built.
The EB-2 NIW is awarded based on accomplishments, not luck
Known as the premium green card for individuals whose work is of national importance, the EB-2 NIW is ideal for professionals at the top of their fields whose work has an impact.
Instead of a lottery, it’s granted on evidence: proof that you’re among the best at what you do, and that your work benefits the US. It is fully self-petitioned, meaning no job offer or employer sponsorship is required to file the Green Card petition.
You don’t need to be famous to qualify
The real question isn’t “Am I extraordinary enough?” It’s “Which of the things I’ve already done give me the leverage to take control?”
Qualifying is more achievable than you may think
To qualify for the EB-2 NIW, you must first meet EB-2 eligibility and then prove that your work meets the National Interest Waiver standard.
You may already satisfy more of this than you expect. The main thing you need is to explain your work to USCIS in a way that makes it difficult for them to deny your application.
STEP 1
EB-2 eligibility — meet one of these two paths
1
Hold an advanced degree
A master’s, PhD, or a bachelor’s plus five years of progressive experience in your field.
OR
2
Show exceptional ability
Proven through a mix of relevant education, experience, awards, publications, or industry recognition.
STEP 2
The National Interest Waiver test
USCIS looks at three things — the Matter of Dhanasar framework.
1
Substantial merit and national importance
Your work addresses issues that matter to the U.S., like healthcare, innovation, climate, or the economy.
2
Well-positioned to advance your work
You have the track record, skills, and resources to move your proposed endeavor forward.
3
Benefit to the U.S.
Waiving the job offer and labor certification would serve the country’s interests.
The EB-2 NIW has been approved for a wide range of experts
Researchers & scientists in healthcare, technology, or energy
Entrepreneurs & founders building businesses that serve national priorities
Public health & policy professionals whose work impacts communities across the US
Engineers & professionals tackling critical infrastructure, sustainability, or education challenges
The exact steps for getting your EB-2 NIW
The EB-2 NIW process follows a clear path, though the timeline depends on how much evidence you already have. Here are the typical steps.
01
Manifest Quiz & Attorney Consult
1–3 days
Start with our free quiz. We’ll assess your eligibility and, if you’re eligible, book your free consultation.
During the consult, you can share your story, get personalized guidance on your case, and make sure it’s the right fit before you commit.
02
Evidence Collection
3–6 weeks
You’ll get a personalized document checklist and access to our secure client portal. With guidance from your attorney and an evidence coach* if needed, you’ll upload materials that showcase your achievements and impact. See your case progress live, watch what your lawyer is working on, and message your lawyer directly through the portal.
03
Petition Drafting, Review & Filing
4–6 weeks · varies by case
Your EB-2 NIW attorney drafts the full petition, including letters, a personal statement, and a cover memo. Depending on the plan you choose, your case is then reviewed by a second attorney or former USCIS officer to ensure it’s strategically sound.
04
Petition Decision
15 business days (premium) · 2 months+ (standard)
After final review, we file your case with USCIS. Processing times are dependent on USCIS, but premium processing can guarantee a decision within 15 business days.
*Disclaimer: Working with an evidence development coach does not guarantee approval of your case.
Taking back control is the goal. Getting the details right is how you can improve your approval odds. The EB-2 NIW can earn you freedom, flexibility, and a path to a green card.
Ana Gabriela Urizar
Immigration Attorney
10+ years of experience
Manifest Law was founded by immigrants, with the purpose of addressing our shared frustrations
OUR QUALITY BAR
Only the Top 1% of Attorney Applicants Are Selected
Every Manifest attorney goes through a selective, multi-stage hiring process. When you engage us, you’re getting an attorney who was chosen for how they think and how they write — not just who was available.
ALWAYS CURRENT
Real-Time Intelligence, Always Up-to-Date
We closely monitor trends in approvals and denials to stay ahead of evolving USCIS expectations. Our attorneys receive ongoing training based on the latest adjudication patterns, and we work with experienced advisors to refine our strategies in real time.
TOTAL TRANSPARENCY
Seamless communication, fast response times
Track your case preparation progress and receive real-time notifications and updates from your legal team via the Manifest portal. We closely monitor trends in approvals and denials to stay ahead of evolving USCIS expectations.
DEEP EXPERTISE
Multi-layer reviews with former USCIS advisors
Every case goes through a structured, multi-level review process by experienced immigration professionals. On select plans, petitions can be reviewed by former USCIS officers to pressure-test the petition before it’s filed.
EB-2 NIW ATTORNEY FEES
Transparent Pricing
Our goal is simple: complete transparency. Every EB-2 NIW case is handled on a flat-fee basis — no hourly billing, no hidden charges, and no surprises. You’ll know exactly what’s included from day one, with the flexibility to choose the level of support that fits your needs.
Starting at
Your experienced attorney files your case, with clear communication and transparency every step of the way.
What’s included:
EB-2 NIW filing
Live case tracking
2-chair legal review
Guaranteed timelines personalized to your case*
Flat-fee pricing with no surprise fees
Credit cards & bank transfers are accepted
Flexible payment plans available for every tier
Our clients love us because we genuinely want to help
W
Wilson Bikaba
2 reviews
a year ago
Lauren and Simon from Manifest Law did an outstanding job. I worked closely with them to respond to my RFE and my case was approved just after the 1st RFE. They drafted really strong recommendation letters and a strong statement of endeavor. They also put together strong evidence from all articles I found online that relate to the work I do. I definitely recommend you to reach out to Manifest Law to help you with your EB-2 NIW case. I liked their hard work and a positive attitude.
C
Catherine W
Google review
Really impressed with Manifest’s extensive experience in EB1 and EB2 visas as well as personalized approach. They were really helpful in advising about my potential options and how to best present my case, should I decide to apply in future.
A
Andras Titton
Google review
I was using Manifest Law’s services during my EB-2 NIW process. The Team was very professional and my petition was approved. I highly recommend their services.
Individual results vary. Past results do not guarantee similar outcomes in future cases
A few minutes tells you whether the EB-2 NIW is a fit, and what taking control could look like. No commitment.
Prior approvals do not guarantee similar outcomes.
Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.