Recording for October 10, 2024 Conference Call with Rajiv S. Khanna
Nonimmigrant Visas
Topics Discussed:
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EB-2 NIW I-140 portability for employer-sponsored cases
Question details
My employer is in the process of filing employer-sponsored EB2 NIW (instead of self-sponsored). I understand that self-sponsored EB2 NIW is independent of an employer and remains valid in any case. But can I-140 obtained from employer-sponsored EB2 NIW be transferred to another employer?
FAQ Transcript
The ability to keep your NIW when changing employers depends on whether you continue to pursue the same endeavor that was the basis for your NIW approval. If you maintain the same type of work in the same field, even with a different employer, you likely can keep your NIW. However, if you change to a completely different field or type of work, you may need to start a new green card process. For certainty, it's advisable to consider filing a new green card application or NIW when changing employers.
Rising NIW rejection rates: Examining changes in eligibility criteria
Question details
Why rejection rate of NIWs is increasing? Is there any change in eligibility criteria, etc.?
FAQ Transcript
The USCIS is currently focusing on two main aspects when evaluating NIW petitions:
- National Importance of Your Work:
They want to see how your specific work benefits the entire country, not just your immediate sphere of influence.
Example: For a neurosurgeon, saving lives locally isn't enough; they want to see a broader national impact.
- Comparative Contribution:
USCIS is looking at how your work stands out from others in your field.
They want to see that your contribution is not just significant but also distinguishable from your peers' work.
These two factors are currently the primary focus in NIW evaluations, leading to higher rejection rates for petitions that don't adequately address these specific points.
Physician in Medically Underserved Area, EB2/NIW
This applicant provided a 5-year contract for services in a medically underserved area, a copy of his J-1 residency requirement waiver, letters from the Health and Human Services office in his area requesting his services, documentation to reflect the statistics of the health professional shortage in his employment area as well as copies of his license to practice medicine.
Green Card
Physician in Medically Underserved Area, EB2/NIW
We won a case for a physician who provided a contract for services for 5 years in a medically underserved area. This applicant also submitted copies of his degree, medical license, medical degree equivalency evaluation, USMLE Step 1, 2 and 3, status paperwork, letter from potential employer stating need, documentation of statistical data on medically underserved area and a letter from Bureau of Health Care Services.