What are the main direct costs of the EB-2 NIW process?

The EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) process may seem complex at first glance, but understanding its direct costs is an important step for proper planning. It is essential to emphasize that the amounts can vary over time and according to the specific situation of each case.

Moreover, it is crucial to strictly follow United States immigration laws, seek information from reliable sources, and rely on companies or specialized professionals in order to avoid scams and miracle promises of results.

In terms of direct costs, the first item to be considered is the filing fee for forms with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Currently, the fee for submitting Form I-140 – which is the core of the process – is one of the main costs. If you are adjusting status within the U.S., there will also be a fee for Form I-485. For those opting for consular processing, other fees may apply.

Additionally, it is quite common to require translations and evaluations of academic or professional documents, which also represent direct expenses. These services vary widely in cost depending on the number of documents and the specific requirements of each evaluation.

Another important point is the hiring of experts or obtaining specialized recommendation letters, which may incur costs if technical or scientific analyses are needed to strengthen the petition.

If the support of a specialized immigration professional or office is chosen, attorney fees constitute a part of the costs you will need to consider. However, it is important to exercise caution and be well informed, avoiding any proposal that promises guaranteed approval, since the final decision will always be subject to the analyses of the competent authorities.

In summary, although the direct costs of the EB-2 NIW process primarily include USCIS processing fees, costs with translations, document evaluations, and, if applicable, professional fees, each step must be carefully planned and closely monitored. Staying updated with official information as well as consulting reliable sources is always the best way to avoid surprises and improper procedures.

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.