The EB-2 visa is a second-preference employment-based visa that allows foreign nationals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities to secure U.S. permanent residency. Unlike the EB-2 NIW, this process requires a Labor Certification (PERM) to prove: 

• No qualified U.S. workers are available for the job 
• Hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact wages or working conditions for U.S. employees 

The PERM labor certification process ensures fair hiring practices while allowing U.S. employers to recruit skilled talent to meet industry demands. 

Advanced Degree Holders 

Applicants must hold: 

• A master’s degree or higher (or a foreign equivalent) 
• A bachelor’s degree plus five years of progressive work experience in the field 

Exceptional Ability Professionals 

Applicants must demonstrate exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business by meeting at least three of the following: 

• Recognition for achievements in the field 
• Professional licenses or certifications 
• 10+ years of work experience 
• Membership in professional organizations 
• Significant contributions to their industry 

For Skilled Professionals & Advanced Degree Holders 

• Permanent Residency – Secure a U.S. green card for long-term employment and residency 
• Career Growth – Access professional opportunities in a thriving job market 
• Family Sponsorship – Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can apply for green cards 

For Employers 

•  Access Global Talent – Fill critical positions with highly skilled professionals 
• Long-Term Workforce Stability – Retain essential employees through green card sponsorship 
• Regulatory Compliance – Ensure all hiring practices align with DOL standards 

• Labor Certification (PERM): Employer must prove there are no qualified U.S. workers for the role 
• Job Offer: A full-time, permanent job offer from a U.S. employer is required 
• Qualification Proof: Applicants must provide documentation of their education, work experience, and exceptional ability 

• PERM/Labor Certification: No government filing fee, but recruitment and legal costs apply 
• I-140 Application Fee: $715 (USCIS fee) 
• Adjustment of Status/Permanent Residency Fees: Varies based on applicant circumstances 
• Attorney Fees: Contact us for a customized quote 

At IBP Immigration Law, we provide transparent pricing and flexible payment plans for individuals and businesses navigating the EB-2 process. 

1. Labor Certification (PERM): The U.S. employer conducts recruitment efforts and submits a PERM application to the Department of Labor 
2. I-140 Petition: Once PERM is approved, the employer files Form I-140 to petition for the foreign worker’s immigrant status 
3. Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: The applicant files for a green card either in the U.S. (Adjustment of Status) or at a U.S. consulate abroad (Consular Processing) 

Processing times vary depending on DOL and USCIS workloads. Average timelines: 

• Prevailing Wage Determination: 4-6 months 
• Recruitment & PERM Certification: 6-8 months 
• I-140 Processing: 6-12 months (15-day Premium Processing available for an additional fee) 

For the latest processing times, visit USCIS Processing Times