Do the costs presented in an EB-2 NIW petition need to align with market standards?

It is worth clarifying the underlying premise: in the EB-2 NIW, the USCIS does not evaluate whether the costs you incurred align with market rates. Unlike investment-based visas, the analysis here focuses on the merit and national importance of your work, not on amounts spent or budgeted.

In other words, trying to prove that a cost falls within market range does not strengthen the petition, because that is not a factor under review. Effort is better directed toward what truly matters:

• Demonstrating the relevance and impact of your work.
• Gathering evidence of recognition, such as expert letters and publications.
• Connecting your work to concrete benefits for the United States.

If a financial document is submitted as supporting evidence, the focus should be on the transparency and consistency of the information, not on justifying prices. Keep budgets and invoices for your own records, without turning them into a merit argument.

Since every case is unique, it is advisable to review the latest USCIS guidelines and go over your petition strategy with a qualified specialist.

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

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.