How do interviews work in the EB-2 NIW process?

The EB-2 NIW has a particularity: because it is based on the candidate’s merit and the benefit to the national interest, as a rule it does not include a formal interview as a mandatory step of the process. The review tends to focus on the documentation submitted.

Even so, an interview can take place in some situations:

• Request for clarification: when the officer needs to confirm the authenticity of the documents or better understand a point of the project that supports the petition.
• Adjustment of status in the U.S.: if the residency request is processed within the country, the interview may be part of the final check before granting permanent resident status.

When it happens, the interview tends to be objective and aimed at confirming information already submitted, rather than reopening the entire case. For this reason, keeping the documentation organized and consistent makes this moment easier and reduces the chance of doubts.

Since each case follows its own path, it is worth checking the official USCIS guidance and, when in doubt, relying on a recognized professional to understand what to expect from your process.

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.