Can proof of volunteering during natural disasters (hurricane, earthquake) be relevant for NIW?

When we talk about the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) visa, we are dealing with a benefit that waives the labor certification due to the national interest of the United States. In this context, every piece of evidence that demonstrates the candidate’s relevance and contribution to the U.S. can earn points, including volunteer activities.

Volunteering in natural disaster situations, such as hurricanes and earthquakes, can be considered a valuable way to demonstrate commitment to social welfare and community improvement. When this experience is well documented – with activity records, recommendation letters, testimonials from involved organizations, and detailed descriptions of the actions performed – it can positively contribute to your case.

This is especially relevant if the volunteer activity is related to fields that benefit the American economy or society, and if it shows exceptional skills or qualities that can be applied in a national interest context. However, it is important to keep in mind that each piece of evidence will be evaluated together with other aspects of the candidate’s profile.

Volunteering can represent an additional point, but it must be integrated into a narrative that proves your actions have national-level relevance. Therefore, it is always advisable to gather as much documentation as possible to build a strong case, considering that the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services conducts a holistic analysis of the submitted documents.

Always remember the importance of strictly following United States immigration laws, seeking guidance from qualified professionals (avoiding promises of outcomes or any guarantees), and protecting yourself against scams or marketing campaigns that promise miraculous solutions. Each situation is unique, and only a detailed analysis of all aspects of the case can indicate the strengths and areas that need reinforcement in your NIW application.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.