EB-2 NIW Green Card


Obtain U.S. permanent residence without employer sponsorship by demonstrating that your work has substantial merit and national importance. The EB-2 NIW provides flexibility for professionals, researchers, and entrepreneurs whose contributions benefit the United States, allowing them to self-petition directly for a green card.



Who is the Visa for?

  • Advanced-degree professionals (Master’s or higher, or equivalent experience)

  • Individuals with exceptional ability in sciences, arts, or business

  • Entrepreneurs, founders, researchers, or professionals whose work has national significance

  • Spouse and unmarried children under 21, who receive the same green card benefits

Eligibility Requirements

  • Hold an advanced degree (or prove exceptional ability)

  • Show your proposed endeavor has substantial merit and national importance

  • Demonstrate you are well positioned to advance the endeavor

  • Prove that waiving the job offer/labor certification benefits the U.S. (national interest waiver)

Visa Duration:

Permanent Residency (Green Card)

Processing Time:

  • I-140: Varies by USCIS center & applicant’s country

  • Premium Processing: 15 days (I-140 only)

  • I-485: Based on visa bulletin & USCIS workload

  • DS-260: Varies by U.S. consulate


OpenSphere Services:

  • NIW eligibility evaluation & strategy

  • Petition letter & evidence drafting

  • Support with recommendation letters & docs

  • RFE defense & USCIS responses

  • AOS or Consular Processing preparation