What are the main indirect costs in the EB-2 NIW process?

The EB-2 NIW process involves not only government fees but also a range of indirect costs that can vary greatly from case to case. These expenses, although not always evident at first glance, are important for planning and keeping the process in compliance with United States immigration laws.

For example, many applicants need to cover translation and evaluation of academic and professional documents, especially if they were issued in another language. These services ensure that credentials are correctly understood and assessed by USCIS, the agency responsible for reviewing immigration petitions.

Additionally, there are costs associated with obtaining official or historical documents – such as diplomas, employment records, and other papers – which may include issuance fees, apostilles, and postal charges. Another point to consider is the fees for specialized consultancies. Although hiring an attorney or consultancy is not mandatory, many applicants choose this support to avoid errors in form preparation and document organization. This investment can be crucial for the proper handling of the process, considering the complexity and importance of each step.

It is important to emphasize that these costs are indirect and usually vary according to the particularities of each case. Furthermore, it is common for the process to require a series of meetings, correspondence submissions, and, in some cases, even travels to obtain interviews or additional documents. These trips, as well as logistics and lodging expenses, also fall under indirect costs and need to be considered in the applicant’s financial planning.

Finally, it is essential to highlight the importance of strictly following United States immigration laws and seeking specialized companies or professionals, to avoid unpleasant surprises, scams, and easy result promises. Investing time in thorough research and consulting reliable sources can make all the difference in conducting a solid and well-documented process.

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.