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jin_eb2_niw
Sep 15, 2025, 3:30 PM1 min read

EB2 NIW Approved Without Employer - My Complete Guide

EB-2
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I just got my EB2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approved without employer sponsorship! This is a game-changer for those who want GC freedom. Here's everything I learned.

What is EB2 NIW? You can self-petition for a green card if you can prove your work is in the national interest of the US. No employer sponsorship needed!

Eligibility:

  • Advanced degree (Master's or higher) OR
  • Exceptional ability in sciences, arts, or business

The three prongs (Matter of Dhanasar):

  1. Substantia...

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david_f1_phdSep 15, 2025, 6:00 PM

This is exactly the path I'm considering! Your profile is impressive. How did you frame the "national importance" argument for NIW? Cancer research seems like it would naturally qualify, but I'm in ML/AI which feels less obviously "national interest."

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jin_eb2_niwSep 15, 2025, 8:30 PM

@david_f1_phd ML/AI is actually GREAT for NIW right now! Frame it around AI competitiveness for the US, national security implications, economic impact, etc. There are many successful ML/AI NIW cases. The key is showing your specific research has substantial merit beyond just academic interest.

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liwei_eb1b_researchSep 16, 2025, 9:00 AM

Congrats! I'm debating between NIW and EB1B. The self-petition aspect of NIW is really attractive. Did you consider EB1B at all? What made you choose NIW?

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jin_eb2_niwSep 16, 2025, 11:00 AM

@liwei_eb1b_research I considered EB1B but chose NIW for two reasons:

  1. Self-petition means I'm not tied to any employer
  2. My profile was borderline for EB1B but strong for NIW

EB1B requires employer sponsorship and "outstanding researcher" status. NIW bar is slightly lower and gives you more freedom. But EB1B is faster if you qualify (no labor cert like PERM).

If you have a strong publication record and employer willing to sponsor, EB1B might be worth trying. You can always file NIW as backup.

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CreatedSep 15, 2025, 3:30 PM
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