The EB2 National Interest Waiver (NIW)
The Employment Based second preference category of visas (EB2) are for professionals with an advanced degree or who have exceptional ability in the arts, sciences, or business. These individuals have the option of pursuing a green card through employment sponsorship or through a national interest waiver (NIW).
The EB2 National Interest Waiver, commonly known as EB2 NIW, is an employment-based visa that allows you to self-petition for a green card without an employer. It is for individuals who have advanced degrees and exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business.
When you submit an EB2 NIW petition, you are asking the government to waive the Labor Certification process. The EB2 National Interest Waiver petition shows that it is in the national interest of the United States to give you a green card.
Over the last few years, an EB2 National Interest Waiver has become a desirable option for qualifying individuals wishing to get a green card. This option is desirable because it does not require employment sponsorship. In other words, you can ask the government to waive the requirement of a job offer and sponsor yourself.