First, it is worth clearing up a common misconception: in EB-2 NIW petitions, the USCIS does not evaluate how much you paid in attorney fees, nor does it judge whether that amount was well spent. The case is decided on the merit and national importance of your work, not on what you spent on legal counsel. How much you invest in professional guidance is a private arrangement between you and your attorney.
That said, keeping track of whether your fees are being well applied is a legitimate way to protect your personal investment. A few practices help:
- Keep the service agreement, invoices, and proof of payment.
- Request periodic reports describing the progress of your case and the steps completed.
- Maintain a record of communications and guidance exchanged throughout the process.
This organization does not factor into the adjudication of your petition, but it brings transparency to your relationship with the law firm and helps you assess the quality of the service provided.
Choose professionals with proven experience and be cautious of anyone who promises guaranteed outcomes. To understand what actually matters in the EB-2 NIW analysis, consult the official USCIS guidance and a trusted specialist.
Learn more about EB-2 NIW
- Category
- EB-2 NIW Green Card
- Self-petition
- Allowed (no sponsor needed)
- PERM
- Waived
- Processing
- 12-36 months
About the author
Victoria Harper
Editor-in-Chief
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.