The EB-2 Visa

The EB-2 visa offers skilled professionals and individuals with exceptional abilities a streamlined pathway to obtaining lawful permanent residence in the United States, enabling them to pursue career opportunities, contribute to the economy, and build a future in a country known for its diverse opportunities and innovation.

The following are a few benefits of the EB-2 Visa Advantage that you should be aware of.

1. Provides a pathway to lawful permanent residence (green card) in the United States.
2. Allows skilled professionals and individuals with exceptional abilities to pursue career opportunities in their fields.
3. Enables individuals to work and live in the United States long-term.
4.  Offers opportunities for career advancement and professional growth.
5.  Allows for family members to accompany the primary visa holder.
6. Provides access to the high standard of living and quality of life in the United States.
7. Offers opportunities to contribute to the U.S. economy and society through skills and expertise.
8.  Provides access to educational and healthcare benefits available to permanent residents.
9. Enables individuals to potentially pursue citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
10. Offers stability and security for individuals and their families.

EB2 Visa Conditions

To qualify, applicants typically need a job offer from a U.S. employer, along with demonstrating either exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business (EB-2A), or possession of an advanced degree (EB-2B). Labor certification, unless waived, is also required, showcasing the intent to work in the United States within their field of expertise.

This is shown by meeting at least three of the following requirements:

1. An academic degree in the field
2. 10 years of full-time experience in the field
3. License or certificate to practice in the field
4. A salary suggestive of exceptional ability
5. Membership in a professional association related to the field
6. Recognition in the field from experts
7. Other comparable evidence of exceptional ability

The procedure and time for processing an EB-2 visa

The EB-2 visa process begins with securing a job offer from a U.S. employer who is willing to sponsor the applicant. Once the job offer is obtained, the applicant must demonstrate their eligibility by meeting the criteria for either exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business (EB-2A), or possessing an advanced degree (EB-2B).

These procedures consist of, but are not restricted to:

1. Determine Eligibility: Assess whether you meet the criteria for the EB-2 visa, which typically requires either exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business (EB-2A), or possession of an advanced degree (EB-2B).

2. Job Offer: Obtain a job offer from a U.S. employer who is willing to sponsor your EB-2 visa application. The job should be in your field of expertise and require your specialized skills or qualifications.

3. Labor Certification (PERM): In most cases, your employer will need to obtain a Labor Certification (PERM) from the U.S. Department of Labor, unless the requirement is waived due to being in the national interest.

4. File Form I-140: Once the Labor Certification is approved or waived, your employer files Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) on your behalf with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

5. Priority Date: Upon approval of Form I-140, you receive a priority date, which determines your place in the visa queue based on the Visa Bulletin issued by the Department of State.

6. Visa Availability: Monitor the Visa Bulletin to track visa availability for your priority date and country of birth.

Document Required for EB2 Visa

The EB2 visa application requires various documents, with specific forms depending on the individual’s situation. Which include;

• Evidence of academic degrees
• Articles or publications by or about you
• Letters from experts in the field
• Copies of contracts between the employer and beneficiary
• Letters from current or previous employers
• Evidence of grants or patents

It’s advisable to seek qualified professional to navigate the EB-2 visa process successfully.