EB-2 Green Card

The EB-2 green card allows professionals with an advanced degree or exceptional ability to live and work in the United States.

An employer or prospective employer must apply for an EB-2 on behalf of the professional and go through the PERM labor certification process with the U.S. Department of Labor on ETA Form 9089. The PERM Labor Certification is a time-intensive process aimed at protecting opportunities, wages, and working conditions of U.S. workers. If PERM is approved, then an EB-2 green card application can be submitted to USCIS.

In some cases, the PERM process can be avoided if an individual qualifies for an EB-2 with a National Interest Waiver.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the EB-2 for advance degree professionals, the candidate must have:

A job offer requiring an advanced degree from a company that has operations or subsidiaries in the U.S.
A U.S. master’s degree, doctorate or equivalent degree in a field that’s related to the job or a U.S. baccalaureate or equivalent degree and at least five years of work experience in the field.

To qualify for the EB-2 for individuals with exceptional ability, you must prove your exceptional ability by showing at least three of the following:

Academic record showing that you have a degree, diploma, certificate, or similar award from a college, university, school, or other institution relating to your area of exceptional ability
Letters documenting at least 10 years of full-time experience in your field
License to practice your profession or certification for your profession
You have commanded a high salary or other compensation that demonstrates your exceptional ability
Membership in a professional association(s) that require an invitation or special achievements
Recognition for your achievements and significant contributions to your field by your peers, government entities, professional or business organizations
Other comparable evidence