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What are the costs associated with the EB-2 NIW process?

EB-2 NIW costs include USCIS official fees, attorney or consultant fees, and indirect expenses such as translations. Learn how to plan ahead and where to confirm current amounts.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 10, 2026
1 min read
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The EB-2 NIW is an immigration pathway that allows qualified professionals to petition without a job offer and without the labor certification required in other categories. This changes the cost structure somewhat, which typically breaks down into official fees and professional support expenses.

The main cost areas are:

  • USCIS official fees: the amounts charged to file and process the petition, which may include additional steps depending on the path chosen (for example, adjustment of status, when applicable). These amounts are reviewed periodically.
  • Professional fees: immigration attorneys or consultants charge based on the complexity of the case and the professional’s experience.
  • Indirect costs: document translation, obtaining certificates, and shipping, which vary from person to person.

Since official fees change over time, do not rely on figures heard informally: confirm the current amounts directly at the official source (USCIS). When hiring professional support, request quotes from trustworthy sources and be wary of anyone who promises guaranteed approval, as no one can assure the outcome.

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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What are the costs associated with the EB-2 NIW process?

EB-2 NIW costs include USCIS official fees, attorney or consultant fees, and indirect expenses such as translations. Learn how to plan ahead and where to confirm current amounts.

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