EB-2 Visa Guide

What Is the EB-2 Visa?

The EB-2 visa is an employment-based immigrant visa for individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business. This visa allows recipients to apply for permanent residency (Green Card) in the U.S. Each year, approximately 40,000 EB-2 visas are issued, but demand often exceeds availability. Applications can be submitted year-round without specific deadlines.

EB-2 Visa Categories

The EB-2 visa has two main subcategories:

1. Advanced Degree Professionals:
   • Requires a master’s degree or higher, or
   • A bachelor’s degree plus at least five years of progressive work experience in the field.
2. Exceptional Ability Individuals:
   • Recognized exceptional skills significantly above the norm in their field.
   • Note: Those in athletics or education typically fall under the EB-1A category instead.

Key Benefits of the EB-2 Visa

1. Permanent Residency (Green Card):
   • Provides a pathway to U.S. citizenship.
   • Grants benefits like in-state tuition rates, freedom to travel, and immigration stability.
2. Faster Process:
   • Among the quickest routes to obtaining a Green Card.
3. Family Eligibility:
   • Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can join the applicant in the U.S.
   • Spouses can apply for work authorization; children can attend U.S. schools.
4. Job Independence:
   • Once Green Card status is granted, employment is no longer tied to the sponsoring employer.

Requirements for EB-2 Visa Eligibility

For Advanced Degree Professionals:

• A master’s or higher degree is required, or
• A bachelor’s degree with five years of progressive experience in the field.

For Exceptional Ability Individuals:

Applicants must demonstrate:

• Skills that are significantly above average within their profession.
• Contributions that benefit the U.S. at a national level (for National Interest Waiver applicants).

PERM Requirement:

• The EB-2 visa typically requires a labor certification (PERM) to prove that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the job.
• Employers must pay at least 100% of the prevailing wage for the position.