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Is the shortage of professionals in my field a justification for NIW?

The shortage of professionals can strengthen the NIW case, provided it is combined with qualifications, robust evidence, and clear benefits to the national interests of the USA.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on March 19, 2026
2 min read
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The EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) visa is a mechanism that waives the requirement of a job offer and Labor Certification, provided that the applicant proves that their work contributes significantly to the national interests of the United States. It is an option for professionals who possess exceptional abilities or advanced degrees in their fields of expertise.

The shortage of professionals in your area can indeed be an important element in building your argument for the NIW. If it is possible to demonstrate that the lack of specialists in the sector negatively impacts progress, innovation, or the competitiveness of the United States, this can strengthen your petition.

However, it is essential to gather solid and documented evidence, such as statistical data, independent studies, or academic publications, that prove this gap and show how your work can fulfill this need. Furthermore, the process is not merely about pointing out difficulties in the labor market; it is necessary to demonstrate that your experience and contributions will bring significant benefits to the country’s interests.

In other words, the argument of ‘professional shortage’ needs to be part of a broader analysis that includes your qualifications, track record of achievements, and the relevance of your work for advancement in your field.

It is worth remembering that complying with United States immigration laws is fundamental. Therefore, it is extremely important to obtain information through reliable sources and, if necessary, seek guidance from specialized professionals. This way, you minimize the risk of falling for scams or marketing approaches that promise guaranteed results without support in the current legislation.

In summary, although the shortage of professionals in your area may help support your case for the NIW, it must be integrated into a more comprehensive argument based on robust evidence. Staying well-informed and acting with caution is essential to follow the correct path in accordance with applicable immigration laws.

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
Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

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Is the shortage of professionals in my field a justification for NIW?

The shortage of professionals can strengthen the NIW case, provided it is combined with qualifications, robust evidence, and clear benefits to the national interests of the USA.

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