Does a project with impact in two or three U.S. states already qualify as national in scope?

Not necessarily. In EB-2 NIW, what defines national scope is not the number of states reached, but rather the breadth and relevance of the benefit your work brings to the country. A project active in two or three states may demonstrate traction, but that alone neither establishes nor rules out a national character.

The core idea is to show that the effects of your work extend beyond a purely local or regional context and serve a broader interest, whether in the economy, innovation, science, or another strategic field. Work based in just a few states can still have national scope if its results are replicable, influential, or relevant to the country as a whole.

To support that argument, qualitative documentation often helps:

• Evidence that the results apply or resonate beyond the region of origin.
• Publications, awards, or recognition attesting to the influence of the work.
• Letters and expert opinions that contextualize the national relevance.

Because each case is evaluated individually, avoid reducing national scope to a state count. It is worth checking updated criteria with the USCIS or with a specialist when preparing your petition.

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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.