I am self-employed and already pay taxes in the US via ITIN: does that help with EB-2 NIW?

Being self-employed and already paying taxes in the United States through an ITIN shows that your tax situation is in good standing. This is a positive factor in an EB-2 NIW petition, but on its own it does not determine the outcome.

This visa category evaluates primarily the merit and national importance of your work, not your tax filing status. Having a clean tax record helps paint a picture of someone who is already operating seriously in the country, but it is not the core of the case.

What truly supports a strong petition is evidence of relevance, such as:

• Projects, research, or innovations with broad impact.
• Publications, awards, and recognition in your field.
• Documents connecting your work to the strategic interests of the United States.

Use your tax compliance as supporting context, not as a primary argument. Since each case is evaluated individually, it is worth reviewing the USCIS updated guidelines and building your strategy with a 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.