EB-2 NIW Evidence Checklist

If you qualify through the advanced-degree path, gather the core academic record and the bachelor-plus-five-years evidence if you are using the alternative version of that route.

If you are not using the degree-based route, gather at least 3 of the regulatory exceptional-ability evidence types or strong comparable evidence where appropriate.

USCIS focuses on the specific endeavor you propose to advance, not just your job title or background. The proposed endeavor should be concrete, scoped, and understandable.

Show why the endeavor matters in a U.S. context and why its potential impact reaches beyond one employer, one client, or one local operation.

Where available, independent government or quasi-governmental interest can be a strong positive factor, especially for strategically important fields.

The second Dhanasar prong shifts the focus to you. USCIS looks at your education, skills, knowledge, and prior record of success in related efforts.

Current USCIS guidance highlights the importance of a real plan for future activities. A strong petition shows what you will do next and how you will do it.

USCIS specifically considers progress toward the endeavor and interest from customers, users, investors, or other relevant stakeholders.

Prong 3 often turns on why the proposed endeavor is not well served by the normal employer-bound labor-certification process.

The final section should show that, on balance, the United States benefits more from allowing you to advance the endeavor without the usual job-offer and labor-certification requirements.