What are the main cost items to be documented in the EB‑2 NIW?

The EB‑2 NIW is a pathway that allows professionals with advanced skills or advanced degrees to demonstrate that their contributions to the United States are of national interest, waiving the need for a job offer. In this context, it is important to be prepared to gather various documents and evidence – and with them, some associated costs – that help prove your qualification and the benefits of your application to the country.

Among the main cost items to be documented and considered in the EB‑2 NIW process, we can highlight:

1. Official USCIS fees: There are specific fees associated with filing Form I‑140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker) and, if applicable, the adjustment of status with Form I‑485. These fees are set by the U.S. government and may be updated periodically, so it is advisable to confirm the current amounts directly on the USCIS website.

2. Credential and diploma evaluation: For applicants who hold degrees obtained abroad, it may be necessary to hire a professional evaluation to verify the equivalency of your diploma to the U.S. standard. This evaluation, usually performed by a specialized agency, generates a cost that must be considered.

3. Sworn translation and document analysis: If some of your documents – such as academic transcripts, diplomas, award certificates, or publications – are in another language, sworn translation into English will be essential. This service also represents an additional cost.

4. Preparation and organization of supporting evidence: Many applicants invest in gathering and properly preparing evidence that proves their achievements and relevance in the field, such as recommendation letters, publications, citations, and award records. These documents may incur additional costs if it is necessary, for example, to authenticate documents or hire consulting services to organize the application portfolio.

It is crucial to emphasize that this entire process must be conducted in compliance with U.S. immigration laws. Therefore, it is always worthwhile to seek updated information from official sources and, if you decide to rely on professional support, ensure that you use companies or specialists with a proven track record and in accordance with regulations, thus avoiding scams or marketing campaigns that promise infallible results.

Staying well informed and following all legal guidelines not only provides transparency to the process but also demonstrates the necessary care for a well-founded and consistent application. Each step – from preparing documents to paying fees – contributes to ensuring that your case is thoroughly evaluated by the competent U.S. authorities.

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.