Tag: immigration-law
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EB-2 Visa Limit Reached for FY 2025: Guidance for EB-2 NIW Applicants
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The U.S. Department of State, in coordination with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has confirmed that the Employment-Based Second Preference (EB-2) immigrant visa category has reached its annual limit for fiscal year (FY) 2025. This means that no more EB-2 visas will be issued for the remainder of FY 2025. The next allocation of…
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USCIS Good Moral Character Memo (August 2025) and What It Means for NIW Applicants
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On August 15, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released a new policy memorandum that changes the way “good moral character” is evaluated for naturalization applicants. While this policy technically applies to citizenship, not green card petitions, it reflects a broader shift in how USCIS approaches immigration benefits. Understanding these trends is valuable for…
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I-140 NIW Petition vs. Green Card Application: Understanding the Two-Step Process
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When professionals begin the U.S. employment-based immigration process, one common misunderstanding is the difference between the I-140 petition and the green card application. Many believe that once Form I-140 is filed or approved, they have applied for a green card. However, these are two separate steps in a longer journey toward permanent residency in the…
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Why the SOC Code Matters for NIW Petitions
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For National Interest Waiver petitions, the SOC code, or Standard Occupational Classification code, is crucial. It defines job roles and influences USCIS perceptions of qualifications and relevance, impacting the petition’s success. Choosing the right SOC code is essential for clarity and credibility.
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Is a Bachelor’s Degree an “Advanced Degree” for EB-2 NIW?
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One misunderstood aspect of the EB-2 National Interest Waiver process is how a petitioner can meet the “advanced degree” requirement without holding a master’s or Ph.D. The truth is, U.S. immigration law provides an alternate pathway. A person may qualify as an advanced degree professional with a bachelor’s degree and at least five years of…
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STEM Professionals and NIW: Why Engineers, Data Scientists, and Researchers Have a Strong Case
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The National Interest Waiver category under the EB-2 immigrant visa is one of the most practical options for highly skilled professionals in STEM fields. One reason STEM professionals qualify for NIW Green Card is that, unlike most employment-based immigration paths, the NIW does not require a job offer or labor certification. This saves a lot…