What is the average processing time for an EB-2 NIW case?

There is no single, fixed timeline for the EB-2 NIW. Processing times vary considerably and depend on factors outside the applicant’s control, so any specific number quickly becomes outdated and can be misleading.

Among the factors that most influence processing time are:

• The USCIS processing center assigned to the case and its current workload.
• The complexity of the case and the completeness of the submitted documentation.
• The volume of petitions under review at any given time.
• Any requests for additional evidence issued during the review.

In some cases, there may be an option for expedited processing for an additional fee, but availability and conditions change over time, so this also needs to be confirmed through the official source.

Since processing times are reviewed periodically, the safest approach is to consult the processing times tool on the USCIS website, which provides up-to-date estimates by petition type and processing center, and to assess your specific situation with an immigration professional.

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.