How can you show that the costs presented are in line with industry standards?

One important point about the EB-2 NIW: the amount you spend on the process is not an eligibility criterion. What the relevant authority evaluates is the merit and national importance of your work, not how much it cost to prepare the petition. That said, organizing costs in a transparent way helps with planning and keeping clear records.

If the goal is to show that the expenses presented are aligned with market practice, a good approach is to gather comparative data: quotes and estimates from different professionals and services that work in the immigration field. This demonstrates that the amounts were not set arbitrarily.

• Collect quotes from more than one professional to establish a reference range.
• Break down the cost composition, separating professional fees, filing fees, and additional expenses.
• Keep receipts and supporting documents that back up each amount.

Be wary of offers that promise fast or guaranteed results: they often mask costs or create unrealistic expectations. Prioritize reputable sources and professionals with a proven track record.

Since each case is evaluated individually, it is worth checking the updated guidance from USCIS and reviewing your plan with a trusted specialist before filing.

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.