Is hiring an American attorney required for EB-2 NIW?

No. Hiring an American attorney is not a legal requirement for EB-2 NIW. You can prepare and submit your petition on your own (self-petition), as long as you feel confident handling the documentation and the requirements of the process.

The EB-2 NIW allows the applicant to act as their own petitioner, without relying on a sponsoring employer. This means that the decision to hire a professional is a matter of convenience and security, not an obligation.

• Immigration law is complex and changes frequently.
• A specialist can help organize documents and avoid mistakes that delay a case.
• Technical expertise can make the legal argument more consistent and persuasive.

If you choose to seek assistance, select a professional with a solid reputation and proven experience, and be cautious of guarantees of a specific outcome. When in doubt about how to handle your case, consult the official guidelines at the official source (USCIS) before deciding.

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.