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How to proceed after EB-2 NIW approval?

Approved on the EB-2 NIW? The next steps toward the green card depend on where you are: adjustment of status in the U.S. or consular processing abroad. Always follow the official source.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on June 30, 2026
1 min read
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EB-2 NIW approval is an important step, but it is not the last one: it opens the way to permanent residence (green card), and the next steps depend on where you are.

Broadly, the path tends to be:

  • Inside the U.S.: you usually apply for adjustment of status to become a permanent resident.
  • Outside the U.S.: the process continues through the consular route, with an interview at the American embassy or consulate.
  • In both cases, you must gather the required documentation and meet the deadlines in the official communications.

Always follow the instructions from USCIS and the Department of State, and confirm at the official source which forms and steps apply to your case. Avoid international travel without the necessary authorizations, as it can affect the progress of the process.

Learn more about EB-2 NIW

Category
EB-2 NIW Green Card
Self-petition
Allowed (no sponsor needed)
PERM
Waived
Processing
12-36 months
All about EB-2 NIW

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.

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How to proceed after EB-2 NIW approval?

Approved on the EB-2 NIW? The next steps toward the green card depend on where you are: adjustment of status in the U.S. or consular processing abroad. Always follow the official source.

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