Skip to main content
A member of GI Group
Client stories · US EB-2 NIW National Interest Waiver

No hospital sponsorship needed: a doctor gains a green card under NIW

Written by Global Immigrate consultants · Reviewed by Oscar Yip, Founder & Managing Director

Summary

Dr Lam’s EB-2 NIW experience. He wanted to move his family to the US.

Background

Dr Lam, from Taichung, applied with his wife and two children. He wanted to move his family to the US.

Main concern

He didn’t want to depend on a US hospital’s sponsorship.

Our approach

He applied under EB-2 NIW, which needs no employer, with a clear argument for his research’s value to US public health.

Process and outcome

His I-140 was approved in about 18 months, and he received a green card following the backlog.

Adviser’s comment

Doctors can argue national importance through public health and clinical research, with no employer needed.

EB-2 NIW application process

  1. Profile assessment and case strategy (1–2 months): We assess your education and experience and shape the argument for your petition.
  2. Prepare and file I-140 (2–4 months): Compile the evidence, recommendation letters and a statement of your plans, and file the I-140.
  3. I-140 decision (Premium processing about 45 working days): With premium processing, NIW petitions are decided within 45 working days; standard processing takes longer.
  4. Green card stage (Depends on visa backlog): File I-485 or attend a consular interview when your priority date is current.

Is this right for you?

Every family’s background and timeline is different. To find out whether a similar plan could work for you, book a free consultation with Global Immigrate.

Based on a real client’s experience; names and some details have been changed for privacy.

Learn more: US EB-2 NIW National Interest Waiver

FAQ

How does NIW differ from a standard EB-2?

A standard EB-2 requires a US employer and labour certification; NIW waives both, so you can file yourself.

Is it suitable for doctors and researchers?

Doctors, researchers, engineers and entrepreneurs often use NIW. The key is showing that your work is of national importance to the US.

Is there a visa backlog?

EB-2 backlogs depend on place of birth and are published in the monthly Visa Bulletin.

Sources

Related articles

WhatsAppLINEWeChat

One of our professional consultants will contact you — free and confidential.

* Required

Scan the QR code in WeChat, or search for our WeChat ID below to add us.

WeChat IDglobalimmigrate