US Introduces EB-2 Visa for Skilled Workers and Families

The US government has announced a new pathway to permanent residency through the Employment-Based Second Preference (EB-2 visa), which is aimed at skilled professionals holding advanced degrees or those demonstrating exceptional ability in their fields. Once a Form I-140 petition is approved, the applicant's spouse and unmarried children under 21 can apply for admission under E-21 and E-22 immigrant status.

The EB-2 visa has two sub-categories: one for advanced degree professionals and another for individuals with exceptional ability, who must meet at least three of six specified criteria. Typically, an employer must file the petition, but the National Interest Waiver allows qualified individuals to self-petition, waiving the standard labor certification requirement.

USCIS evaluates the merit and national importance of the proposed endeavor, especially favoring applicants with advanced STEM degrees pursuing work in critical areas. Certain occupations under Schedule A also bypass the labor certification process.