The visa for exceptional ability, also known as the EB-2 visa, is a type of employment-based green card that allows individuals with exceptional ability in the arts, sciences, business, or athletics to work and live permanently in the United States. To be eligible for this visa, individuals must demonstrate that they have an exceptional ability in their field, which is defined as a level of expertise significantly above that normally encountered in the field.
To qualify for the EB-2 visa, individuals must typically meet one of the following criteria:
Hold an advanced degree (such as a master's degree or higher) in their field of expertise.
Have a bachelor's degree and at least five years of work experience in their field.
Have a lesser degree and at least 10 years of work experience in their field.
In addition to these educational and work experience requirements, individuals must also provide evidence of their exceptional ability, such as awards or accolades in their field, membership in professional organizations, or published articles in their field.
To apply for the EB-2 visa, individuals must first have a job offer from a U.S. employer and must go through the labor certification process, unless they are eligible for a National Interest Waiver (NIW). The NIW allows individuals with exceptional ability to bypass the labor certification process if their work in the United States would be in the national interest of the country. To qualify for the NIW, individuals must demonstrate that they have exceptional ability in their field and that their work in the United States would significantly benefit the country.
If you are seeking to get a green card through the EB-2 visa for exceptional ability, it is important to work with an experienced immigration attorney to ensure that you meet all of the eligibility requirements and to help you navigate the application process.