Permanent residency for professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability (requires labor certification).
Estimated Cost
$8,090
Processing Time
~2.2 years
Validity
Permanent
The EB-2 is an employment-based second preference immigrant visa for members of professions holding advanced degrees or individuals with exceptional ability in sciences, arts, or business. The standard EB-2 category requires employer sponsorship and PERM labor certification.
Average: 2.2 years
Path to Residency
Path to Citizenship
~5 years
Advanced degree or exceptional ability*
Must have a U.S. advanced degree (master's or higher) or foreign equivalent, OR bachelor's degree plus five years of progressive post-baccalaureate experience, OR demonstrate exceptional ability meeting 3 of 6 criteria
Job offer*
Must have a permanent, full-time job offer from a U.S. employer
Labor certification (PERM)*
Employer must obtain PERM labor certification from the Department of Labor, proving no qualified U.S. workers are available
| Fee | Amount | Type |
|---|---|---|
| PERM Labor Certification | $0 | One-time |
| Form I-140 Filing Fee | $715 | One-time |
| Form I-485 Adjustment of Status | $1,440 | One-time |
| Biometrics Fee | $85 | One-time |
| Medical Examination | $350 | One-time |
| Premium Processing Fee (I-907)(optional) | $2,965 | One-time |
| Advertising/Recruitment (PERM) | $5,500 | One-time |
| Legal/Attorney Fees(optional) | $14,000 | One-time |
| Estimated Total | $8,090 |