Comprehensive Insights: Understanding and Applying for the EB2 Visa

The EB2 visa opens the door to permanent residency in the United States for professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional skills. Whether you’re a scientist, engineer, doctor, or business expert, the EB2 category could be your path to a green card.

But what is the EB2 visa exactly, and how do you qualify? This guide covers everything you need to know, from basic requirements to the detailed EB-2 to green card process. We’ll walk through eligibility, documentation, and the EB2 application timeline so you know what to expect at every stage.

You'll also learn how this visa compares to other employment-based categories, how long it is valid for, and what it costs to apply. Whether you’re looking at the standard EB2 route or the National Interest Waiver, we’ll break down the key differences.

By the end, the process, common challenges, how to handle certified translations, job changes, or family visas under the EB2 visa program, and much more. Are you ready to explore your future in the U.S.? Let’s get right into it!

What is the EB2 Visa in the U.S.?

The EB2 visa is a U.S. employment-based immigrant visa for professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities. It’s designed for individuals whose education or skills can make a meaningful impact in the U.S. economy, science, technology, business, or the arts. Think of it as a bridge to permanent residency for highly qualified professionals. Many use the EB2 as their route to the green card, making it one of the most sought-after categories.

Criteria for EB2 Visa Eligibility

To qualify for the EB2, you need to meet one of two core requirements:

• You have an advanced degree (or a bachelor’s plus five years of experience)
• You can show exceptional ability in your field

In most cases, you’ll also need a valid job offer from a U.S. employer and a labor certification proving that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the job. However, some applicants can skip these steps through a National Interest Waiver (NIW). Let’s take a closer look at the key EB2 requirements:

• Education and Experience: You must have at least a master’s degree, or its equivalent. If you only have a bachelor’s, you’ll need five years of progressive work experience in your field. Alternatively, you can show exceptional ability, backed by awards, professional recognition, or proven expertise.

• Job Offer and Labor Certification: A job offer is usually required, along with a PERM labor certification from the U.S. Department of Labor. This certification confirms that hiring a foreign worker won’t hurt U.S. workers in the same job market.

How the EB2 Differs from Other Employment Visas

The EB2 sits between the EB1 and EB3 categories:

• EB1 visas are for individuals with extraordinary abilities, top researchers, or multinational executives.
• EB3 visas cover skilled workers, professionals with bachelor’s degrees, and other workers with at least two years of experience or training.

The EB2 category strikes a balance. It’s for people with strong qualifications who may not meet the strict EB1 criteria but go beyond the general standards of the EB3. If you meet the EB2 visa requirements, this path could lead you to a long-term future in the U.S. through the EB-2 green card process.

EB2 Visa Application Process

Getting an EB2 visa involves several steps and can take some time. But understanding each stage makes the process easier to manage.

1. EB2 Visa Processing Time

The EB2 visa processing time depends on a few different steps. Here's what the full journey usually looks like.

• PERM Labor Certification (if required): The process often starts when your U.S. employer files for a PERM Labor Certification through the Department of Labor. This proves there aren’t qualified U.S. workers available for the position being offered. Timing here varies based on the job and how fast the DOL processes the request.

• b. Filing Form I-140: Once the PERM is approved, your employer files Form I-140, the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker. This step can take several months, depending on USCIS's workload and your specific case. This petition is where your employer confirms you meet the EB2 requirements.

• Priority Date and the Visa Bulletin: USCIS assigns a priority date based on when it receives your I-140. You’ll then need to keep an eye on the monthly Visa Bulletin to know when your priority date becomes current. Visa availability depends on your country of origin, which can affect how long you wait.

• Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: If your priority date is current, you can move to the next step. Either apply for Adjustment of Status (if you’re already in the U.S.) or go through Consular Processing (if you’re outside the U.S.). Either way, this stage might include a medical exam, interview, and more paperwork, which can also affect the overall EB2 visa processing time.

Factors That Affect EB2 Processing Time

Several things can impact how long it takes to complete the EB2 green card process:

• USCIS Workload: Processing times vary by service center and case load.
• Country of Origin: Some countries, like India and China, face longer waits due to visa limits.
• Application Accuracy: Mistakes or missing documents often lead to delays. USCIS might issue a Request for Evidence (RFE), which pauses your case.

Understanding how the process works and what can slow it down can help you plan better and avoid common issues in the EB-2a visa application process or the EB-2 b visa processing time.

EB2 Visa Cost Breakdown

The cost of applying for an EB2 visa can vary depending on your situation, especially if you're using an attorney or applying from outside the U.S. Below is a general look at the typical EB2 visa cost.

• Form I-140 Filing Fee: This fee is paid by your employer when they file Form I-140. The amount depends on the size of the company and the specifics of your case.

• Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing Fees: If you’re in the U.S., you’ll likely need to file Form I-485 to adjust your status. If you're abroad, you’ll go through DS-260 consular processing. In both cases, fees will apply for biometrics and visa issuance.

Additional Expenses

• Attorney Fees: Many applicants choose to work with an immigration attorney to help with the EB2 green card process. These fees vary by provider.

• Medical Exam and Vaccination Costs: Before final approval, you’ll need a medical exam by a certified doctor. This includes required vaccinations and can cost a few hundred dollars.

• Support Document Translation Costs: Every supporting documentation you might need to submit needs to be in English or be accompanied by a certified translation. MotaWord can help you with that!

While these costs may add up, planning helps avoid surprises. The total EB2 visa cost is a small price to pay for a green card and the chance to build your life in the United States.

How Long Is the EB2 Visa Valid For?

The EB2 visa leads to lawful permanent residency in the U.S., which means you can get a green card. However, the visa itself is typically valid for up to ten years. The exact duration can vary a bit depending on where your visa is processed. Still, in most cases, when people ask “how long is an EB2 visa valid for,” the answer is around 10 years with the ability to renew.

Renewal and Extension Options

• Visa Renewal: Individuals can apply for a visa renewal after the initial validity period of the EB2 visa expires by submitting Form I-90,, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This process entails updating personal information and obtaining a new green card.

• Renewal of Permanent Residency: To extend permanent residency beyond the initial 10-year period, individuals must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, within the 90-day window before their conditional green card expires, if applicable. This applies to those who received a two-year conditional green card initially.

• Priority Date Extensions: If the priority date is not current, individuals may be required to wait for their priority date to become current before being eligible for an extension or renewal.

Maintaining EB2 Visa Status

Once you have your green card EB2, you’ll need to meet a few basic requirements to keep your status:

• Live primarily in the U.S. Staying abroad too long can raise red flags with immigration.
• Stay employed in your field. EB2 status is tied to your job or your field of expertise.
• Follow U.S. laws. Avoid legal trouble that could impact your immigration status.
• Pay your taxes. Show that you live and work in the U.S. by filing taxes every year.

The EB-2 green card process gives you permanent status, but it’s still important to follow the rules to stay in good standing.

Maintaining EB2 Visa Status

To sustain EB2 visa status, individuals are required to:

• Reside Primarily in the U.S.: Individuals with an EB2 visa should primarily reside in the United States. Extended periods outside the U.S. might raise questions regarding residency status.

• Comply with Immigration Laws: Adhering to U.S. immigration laws, including avoiding criminal activities or any actions that could jeopardize their immigration status, is crucial.

• Employment with the Petitioning Employer: EB2 visa holders are typically sponsored by an employer. They must maintain employment with the same employer or in the same field that the visa was initially granted, unless specific circumstances and legal processes allow otherwise.

• Continuous Presence and Tax Obligations: Maintaining a continuous presence in the U.S. and fulfilling tax obligations, including filing taxes, is important to demonstrate residency.

Ensuring compliance with these requirements is essential to sustain the validity and status of the EB2 visa.

Required Documentation for EB2 Visa Application

To apply for the EB2 visa, you'll need to gather and submit a set of documents to USCIS. These documents help prove you meet the EB2 requirements and are eligible for a green card under this category.

Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically required:

• Educational and Professional Credentials. You’ll need to provide:

  • Degrees, diplomas, and transcripts proving you have an advanced degree or equivalent

  • Awards, licenses, or recommendation letters that show exceptional ability or major achievements in your field

• Certified Translations: If any of these documents are not in English, you must include a certified translation. This is a key part of meeting USCIS documentation standards.

• Job Offer Letter: You’ll need a formal offer from a U.S. employer. The letter should include job title, duties, salary, and start date.

• Proof of Work Experience: Include letters from previous employers or contracts that confirm your relevant work experience.

• Valid Passport: You’ll need a valid passport that covers your travel to the U.S. and remains valid throughout the EB2 visa process.

• Medical Exam Records: A medical examination is required. A USCIS-approved doctor must complete the exam and issue the required report.

• Police Clearance Certificates: To show you have no criminal history, you’ll need police certificates from countries where you’ve lived for extended periods.

• Financial Proof: Some applicants may be asked to show they can support themselves and any dependents while in the U.S.

• Translations and Certified Copies: Again, any documents not in English must be translated and, in most cases, certified. These certified translations help avoid delays or rejections in the EB-2a visa application process or the EB-2 b visa application process.

Keep in mind, documentation requirements can vary based on your situation and the USCIS officer reviewing your case. To avoid issues, check the latest USCIS guidelines or work with an immigration attorney familiar with the EB-2 green card process.

FAQs on EB2 Visa

1. Can I change employers while on an EB2 visa?

Yes, you can change jobs, but there are a few things to keep in mind to stay within the rules of the EB2 visa.

• New Job Offer Required: If you switch employers, the new company usually has to sponsor your EB2 visa. This means filing a new Form I-140 on your behalf.

• Priority Date Retention: If your previous I-140 was approved and over 180 days have passed, you might keep your original priority date. That can save time in the green card EB2 process if the new job is in a similar role.

• Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: Depending on where you are in the EB2 visa application, you may need to file a new adjustment of status or go through consular processing for the new job offer.

• Stay in Status: It’s important to avoid any gaps in legal status. That might mean staying with your current employer until the new petition is approved.

• Talk to an Immigration Attorney: Changing employers on an EB2 visa is doable, but it's best to get legal advice. An attorney can help you manage the paperwork and avoid mistakes.

2. Are family members eligible for EB2 derivative visas?

Yes, your family can come with you. Spouses and unmarried kids under 21 are eligible for derivative visas linked to your EB2 application.

• Spouse: Your spouse can apply for an E21 visa. Once in the U.S., they may also qualify for work authorization.

• Children: Your children can get E22 visas. They can attend school and live with you in the U.S.

These derivative visas depend on your EB2 status. If your green card is approved, their status usually adjusts along with yours.

3. Is there a list of jobs that qualify for the EB2 visa?

There’s no fixed list of EB2-eligible jobs. What matters is your background, not your job title.

• Advanced Degree Professionals: If you have a master's (or higher), or a bachelor’s plus five years of progressive experience, you may qualify.

• Exceptional Ability: You can also apply based on exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business. You’ll need strong documentation, like awards or published work.

• National Interest Waiver (NIW): If your work benefits the U.S. broadly, you might not need a job offer or labor certification. This path is part of the EB-2a visa application process and is ideal for researchers, healthcare professionals, or entrepreneurs doing high-impact work.

No matter your profession, what matters is that your skills align with the EB2 visa requirements.

4. Do I need to earn a certain salary to keep my EB2 status?

There’s no set income requirement to maintain your EB2 green card, but there are a few things to watch out for.

• Full-Time Employment: You should keep working in the role (or field) listed in your original petition. The job must be full-time unless USCIS has approved something different.

• Self-Sufficiency: While there’s no specific salary threshold, you must show that you can support yourself and your dependents. Relying on government assistance can be a red flag.

• Follow Immigration Laws: Always stay in legal status. Report changes when required, and avoid anything that could threaten your green card status.

• Keep USCIS Updated: If your work situation changes, check whether it affects your EB2 requirement. An attorney can help you figure out if an update or a new petition is needed.

5. Can EB2 visa holders apply for U.S. citizenship?

Yes. EB2 visa holders can apply for U.S. citizenship once they meet the green card residency requirement.

• First Step: Get a Green Card: The EB2 visa is a path to permanent residency. Once you get your green card, the clock starts.

• Residency Timeline: You must live in the U.S. for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen) before applying for citizenship.

• Moral Character & Civics Test: Applicants must show good moral character and pass the civics and English language tests.

• File Form N-400: Once eligible, you can apply using Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization.

Citizenship is the final step in the EB-2 green card process for many applicants. It’s a big commitment, so be sure you meet all the requirements before applying.

Why Certified Translations Matter in the EB2 Visa Process

Applying for the EB2 visa means submitting a wide range of documents, from diplomas and transcripts to job offer letters and reference letters. If any of these are in a foreign language, USCIS requires a certified translation. This isn’t just a formality—it's one of the most important EB2 visa requirements.

Accurate translations help prove that your education, experience, and qualifications meet the EB2 requirement. If your translation is incomplete or incorrect, it can slow down your case or result in a request for more evidence, which delays the EB2 visa processing time.

Documents often needing certified translation in the EB2 green card process include:

• Academic records like degrees and transcripts
• Letters of recommendation or proof of exceptional ability
• Employment verification documents and contracts
• Legal documents such as affidavits or court records

Certified translations must be word-for-word, clearly formatted, and include a signed statement confirming the translation is accurate and complete. USCIS won’t accept anything less.

MotaWord offers USCIS-compliant certified translations with delivery in under 12 hours. Whether it’s your degree, resume, or a legal document, we’ll handle it with speed and accuracy. Reach out to us and get your translations ready today!

“We collected and distilled information on immigration for our site visitors from USCIS and other sources as a basic guide. MotaWord is a translation platform providing certified translations for immigration applicants and not a law firm. The information provided should not be construed as legal advice and might not be current. For current information please refer to the USCIS website or speak to your licensed immigration attorney.”