Can I cite collaborations with Department of Defense laboratories in an EB-2 NIW petition?

Yes, you can, and it may be relevant. In the EB-2 NIW, collaborations with laboratories affiliated with the Department of Defense can be included as evidence of professional merit, provided they are documentable and that any details shared respect applicable confidentiality or security restrictions.

The key point is that the reviewing authority evaluates the relevance and impact of your work. This type of collaboration strengthens your case when you can document it without disclosing sensitive or classified information. Before citing it, it is worth confirming what can be disclosed.

• Prefer evidence that is already public, such as publications, patents, or recognized projects.
• Verify whether sensitive or classified information is involved before going into detail.
• Connect the collaboration to the merit of your work and to the national interest.

Handling sensitive details with care preserves the integrity of the process and strengthens the credibility of your evidence. Since each case is evaluated individually, it is advisable to check updated requirements with USCIS and align with a specialist on what can be safely presented.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.