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

The direct costs of the EB-2 NIW go beyond official fees: they include translations, credential evaluations, and, if you choose, attorney fees. Since fees change over time, always confirm the latest amounts with USCIS.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 10, 2026
1 min read
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The direct costs of the EB-2 NIW process are the out-of-pocket expenses involved in preparing and filing the petition. Because official fees change over time and vary depending on your path (for example, adjustment of status inside the United States or consular processing), the safest approach is to understand the categories of cost and confirm current figures at the official source.

In general terms, direct costs typically include:

  • Official fees charged by USCIS to file the petition and, when applicable, for adjustment of status.
  • Translations and credential evaluations of academic or professional documents, which vary with the volume of materials.
  • Expert letters or technical opinions, when you engage third parties to strengthen your case.
  • Attorney fees, if you choose professional support.

Avoid any proposal that promises guaranteed approval: the decision always rests with the competent authority. To plan accurately, check the current fees on the USCIS website and, if possible, validate your budget with a trusted professional before you begin.

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 main direct costs of the EB-2 NIW process?

The direct costs of the EB-2 NIW go beyond official fees: they include translations, credential evaluations, and, if you choose, attorney fees. Since fees change over time, always confirm the latest amounts with USCIS.

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