NIW National Interest Waiver Assessment
Based on the three-prong test framework established by Matter of Dhanasar, 26 I&N Dec. 884 (AAO 2016). NIW applicants must satisfy all three prongs.
What is the NIW National Interest Waiver?
NIW (National Interest Waiver) is a special pathway under the US EB-2 employment-based immigration category, allowing qualified applicants to self-petition for a green card without employer sponsorship or labor certification. The legal basis is INA § 203(b)(2)(B) and 8 C.F.R. § 204.5(k)(4)(ii).
In 2016, the AAO (Administrative Appeals Office) established the current three-prong test framework in Matter of Dhanasar, 26 I&N Dec. 884 (AAO 2016), replacing the nearly 20-year-old Matter of NYSDOT standard. Applicants must satisfy all three prongs:
Dhanasar Three-Prong Test Framework
- 1.实质性价值和国家重要性（Substantial Merit and National Importance）— 申请人的拟议事业具有实质性价值和国家重要性。
Legal basis: Matter of Dhanasar, 26 I&N Dec. 884, 889 (AAO 2016) - 2.有能力推进该事业（Well Positioned to Advance the Endeavor）— 外籍人士有能力推进其拟议的事业。
Legal basis: Matter of Dhanasar, 26 I&N Dec. 884, 890 (AAO 2016) - 3.利益权衡（豁免合理性）（Balance of Equities (Waiver Justified)）— 综合考虑，豁免工作邀请和劳工证要求对美国是有利的。
Legal basis: Matter of Dhanasar, 26 I&N Dec. 884, 891 (AAO 2016)
Key Review Factors (check those you have prepared)
Recommended Evidence Types
- +Documentation defining the scope and goals of the endeavor
- +Government reports or policies highlighting national importance of the field
- +Expert letters explaining the endeavor's significance
- +Industry data demonstrating national relevance
- +Media coverage or publications about the field's importance
- +Statistics on national impact (jobs, economic contribution, etc.)
Common Weaknesses (Avoid)
- !Endeavor described too vaguely or abstractly
- !Impact limited to local or regional scope without national connection
- !Failure to distinguish endeavor from routine work in the field
- !Lack of concrete evidence of national importance
Your self-assessment for this prong:
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This tool is for reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Actual case evaluation requires a qualified attorney based on your specific circumstances.