USCIS has updated its criteria for National Interest Waiver (NIW) applications, resulting in a rise in Requests for Evidence (RFEs) for applicants. This change follows the agency’s 2025 policy update, which emphasizes the need for clear and specific endeavors in applications. Recent reviews of Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) decisions reveal that vague descriptions of work and insufficient evidence of real-world impact are common reasons for RFEs.
Key Details:
- Applicants must define their specific endeavor clearly, rather than simply stating their field of work.
- USCIS is focusing on the applicant’s individual contributions rather than the general importance of their field.
- Credentials alone, such as PhDs or publications, are no longer sufficient to demonstrate that an applicant is well-positioned to advance their work.
- Applications lacking a clear plan for future work are likely to receive RFEs, as USCIS requires detailed descriptions of what, how, and where the work will be applied.
The tightened criteria mean that many applicants may face challenges in securing their NIW approvals, as unclear or job-based arguments are increasingly scrutinized. Need help with your immigration case? Visit QuickFiling.us for professional immigration services.
Source: r/EB2_NIW