EB-2 NIW approval for data scientist

Alex, a data scientist, secured EB-2 NIW by showcasing his role in cybersecurity and its impact on U.S. safety and innovation.

Success story: EB-2 NIW

Alex’s background was in data science, holding a bachelor’s degree in computer science and having previously worked for a well-known internet company. Despite this, he recently graduated with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in the U.S., which opened up new opportunities but also brought some immigration challenges, as he was still in the process of seeking an employer. Unlike many EB2 NIW applicants, Alex didn’t have published academic papers or publicly available research results due to the confidential nature of his work.

However, since January 2022, President Biden’s administration has been enacting measures to attract and retain international STEM talent, underscoring the critical importance of STEM to the nation’s future. This focus on STEM reflects a commitment to fostering innovation, research, and the development of cutting-edge technologies that are essential for the United States to maintain its position as a global leader in technological and economic innovation. Alex recognized that these initiatives create an inviting environment for international STEM talent, contributing to ongoing progress and success in science and technology while securing the nation’s future leadership on the global stage.

Alex used the EB-2 NIW Starter Kit for data scientists and submitted an I-140 petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS):

As expected, the USCIS issued a Request for Evidence (RFE), requesting more details about Alex’s career plan and intended employment in the U.S. At this time, Alex had secured a position as a Data Scientist in the field of cybersecurity, aligning with his original intention to work in internet security, identity protection, and privacy concerns that benefit the safety of U.S. citizens. Alex responded to the RFE with strong evidence of his dedication to data science and the significance of his chosen field in internet security.

The good news came shortly after: Alex’s NIW petition was approved, and he was on his way to becoming a data scientist in the U.S. Alex’s journey is a testament to determination and adaptability in the face of immigration challenges, showing that with the right approach and evidence, achieving permanent residency is possible.