USCIS Approves EB-2 Green Card Pathways for Workers

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has detailed the eligibility criteria for foreign nationals seeking green cards through the Employment-Based Second Preference (EB-2) visa category. This category includes two main sub-categories: advanced degree professionals and individuals of exceptional ability.

Advanced degree professionals must possess qualifications above a bachelor's degree, such as a master's or doctorate, or a bachelor's degree with at least five years of progressive work experience. The role applied for must be a professional occupation requiring at least a bachelor's degree.

Certain professions, identified by the Department of Labour as Schedule A occupations, are exempt from the standard labor certification requirement. These include professional nurses and physical therapists, as well as individuals with exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or performing arts.

The National Interest Waiver allows eligible individuals to self-petition without an employer sponsor, provided they demonstrate that their work has substantial merit and national importance to the United States.