“Every step was professional. Thank you for helping me through this process.”

On September 4^th, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Field of Clinical Research (Approval Notice).

General Field: Clinical Research

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Postdoctoral Research Associate

Country of Origin: Iran

Approval Notice Date: September 4^th, 2026

Processing Time: 19 months, 18 days (Premium Processing Upgrade Requested)

Case Summary:

The client holds an MD degree and is currently employed conducting clinical research at a major U.S. university. Operating in the field of clinical research, the client’s proposed endeavor focuses on continuing her research on increasing the survival rate and quality of life of patients with lethal pancreatic cancer. This work directly addresses vital public health priorities by establishing earlier diagnostic precision, ultimately reducing downstream healthcare costs and improving long-term patient outcomes.

To demonstrate that the client satisfies the Matter of Dhanasar framework, our legal team built an evidentiary portfolio showing that her research record represents field-wide influence rather than baseline clinical output:

• Publication Record: Authorship of 13 peer-reviewed journal articles (5 of them first-authored), reflecting a consistent record of scholarly dissemination in top medical journals.

• Citation Impact & Percentiles: Accumulation of 81 citations across her published body of work. Rather than presenting raw figures alone, we provided bibliometric data proving that five of her articles rank in the top 10% of most-cited clinical medicine papers for their respective publication years.

• Field Reliance: Concrete evidence demonstrating that independent international researchers actively rely on her clinical findings and radiological strategies to evaluate critical care medication safety, neuroimaging pathways, and diagnostic classifications.

• Evaluative Standing: Completion of at least 1 peer review to date for an authoritative journal in her field, confirming that editorial boards recognize her specialized medical expertise.

The petition was further corroborated by 2 letters of recommendation from distinguished experts in the field who verified the practical necessity and national importance of the client's research.

By connecting the client's diagnostic radiology frameworks, independent scientific reliance, and national priorities in oncology and liver disease management, we proved that waiving the job offer requirement served the national interest. USCIS approved the client's I-140 NIW petition in over 19 months.

"WeGreened/Chen did an excellent job with my EB-2 NIW petition. The materials that they produced had a consistently high quality and were detailed. They were able to expand my answers into a compelling story, which led to my approval. I was also satisfied with how I could ask questions during the process and get detailed answers on why something was or was not done.”

On September 3^rd, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for an Expert in the Field of Machine Learning (Approval Notice).

General Field: Machine Learning

Country of Origin: Brazil

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: South Dakota

Approval Notice Date: September 3^rd, 2026

Processing Time: 1 month, 28 days (Premium Processing Requested)

Case Summary:

An EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) petition was successfully approved via Direct Premium Processing for a researcher operating in the field of applied machine learning. Holding a Ph.D. in chemical engineering, the client is currently employed conducting research at a U.S. academic institution. His proposed endeavor focuses on applying machine learning modalities to challenges in biopharmacology and bioproduction. This includes developing novel models that predict the location and quantitative distribution of glycans, the productivity of cells that produce biopharmaceuticals, and bioreactor conditions to discover enhanced medicinal agents, reduce treatment costs, and create robust, trustworthy models for scientific applications via hybrid learning and interpretability techniques.

To satisfy the legal framework under Matter of Dhanasar, our legal team demonstrated that the client's metrics represented significant field-wide impact rather than standard academic output:

• Publication & Citation Record: Authorship of 7 peer-reviewed journal articles (4 first-authored, 1 co-first-authored) and 3 first-authored preprints, accumulating 59 citations. We contextualized this output using bibliometric data showing a paper ranked among the top 10% most-cited computer science articles for its publication year.

• Peer Review Activity: Completion of at least 8 peer reviews for authoritative machine learning conferences, proving that leading editorial boards trust his specialized expertise.

• Field Impact & Media Recognition: Concrete evidence showing that independent researchers actively applied his predictive algorithms in bioproduction and materials science, alongside feature coverage in major scientific media outlets.

• Major Federal Funding: Research support from prominent federal bodies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL), and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

By linking the client’s machine learning frameworks directly to U.S. priorities in artificial intelligence, precision medicine, and biomanufacturing competitiveness, we established that waiving the job offer requirement served the national interest. USCIS approved the I-140 NIW petition filed with Direct Premium Processing in around 2 months without any RFE.

História de Sucesso: I-140 NIW Aprovado por Meio de Processamento Premium Direto para Pesquisador Brasileiro de Aprendizado de Máquina Aplicado

Depoimento da Cliente:

“A WeGreened/Chen realizou um excelente trabalho com a minha petição EB-2 NIW. Os materiais produzidos foram consistentemente detalhados e de alta qualidade. A equipe conseguiu desenvolver minhas respostas e transformá-las em uma narrativa convincente, o que levou à aprovação do meu caso. Também fiquei satisfeito com a possibilidade de fazer perguntas durante o processo e receber respostas detalhadas sobre os motivos pelos quais determinadas medidas foram ou não adotadas.”

Em 3 de setembro de 2026, recebemos mais uma aprovação de EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver – Dispensa por Interesse Nacional) para um especialista na área de Aprendizado de Máquina (Aviso de Aprovação).

Área Geral: Aprendizado de Máquina

País de Origem: Brasil

Estado de Residência no Momento da Submissão: Dakota do Sul

Data do Aviso de Aprovação: 3 de setembro de 2026

Tempo de Processamento: 1 mês e 28 dias (Processamento Premium Solicitado)

Resumo do Caso 

Uma petição EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) foi aprovada com sucesso por meio de Processamento Premium Direto para um pesquisador que atua na área de aprendizado de máquina aplicado. Com Ph.D. em engenharia química, o cliente atualmente realiza pesquisas em uma instituição acadêmica dos Estados Unidos. Seu trabalho proposto concentra-se na aplicação de métodos de aprendizado de máquina a desafios em biofarmacologia e bioprodução. Isso inclui o desenvolvimento de novos modelos para prever a localização e a distribuição quantitativa de glicanos, a produtividade de células produtoras de biofármacos e as condições de biorreatores, com o objetivo de descobrir agentes terapêuticos aprimorados, reduzir os custos de tratamento e criar modelos robustos e confiáveis para aplicações científicas por meio de técnicas de aprendizado híbrido e interpretabilidade.

Para atender aos requisitos jurídicos estabelecidos em Matter of Dhanasar, nossa equipe jurídica demonstrou que os indicadores do cliente representavam um impacto significativo em sua área de atuação, indo além da produção acadêmica convencional:

• Publicações e Citações: Autoria de 7 artigos publicados em periódicos com revisão por pares (4 como primeiro autor e 1 como co-primeiro autor), além de 3 pré-prints como primeiro autor, totalizando 59 citações. Contextualizamos essa produção com dados bibliométricos que demonstraram que um de seus artigos estava entre os 10% mais citados na área de ciência da computação em seu ano de publicação.

• Atividade de Revisão por Pares: Realização de pelo menos 8 revisões por pares para conferências de referência na área de aprendizado de máquina, demonstrando que importantes comitês editoriais confiam em sua expertise especializada.

• Impacto na Área e Reconhecimento na Mídia: Evidências concretas demonstraram que pesquisadores independentes aplicaram ativamente seus algoritmos preditivos em bioprodução e ciência dos materiais, além de seu trabalho ter recebido destaque em importantes veículos de comunicação científica.

   

• Financiamento Federal de Grande Relevância: Apoio à pesquisa proveniente de importantes órgãos federais, incluindo a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), o National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) e o National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Ao vincular diretamente as estruturas de aprendizado de máquina desenvolvidas pelo cliente às prioridades dos Estados Unidos em inteligência artificial, medicina de precisão e competitividade na área de biofabricação, demonstramos que dispensar a exigência de uma oferta de emprego atendia ao interesse nacional. O USCIS aprovou a petição I-140 NIW, protocolada com Processamento Premium Direto, em aproximadamente 2 meses e sem qualquer RFE (Request for Evidence – Solicitação de Evidências Adicionais).

“Thank you for your assistance with the I-140 NIW process!”

On September 9^th, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Postdoctoral Associate in the Field of Chemical Engineering (Approval Notice).

General Field: Chemical Engineering

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Postdoctoral Associate

Country of Origin: Brazil

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Maryland

Approval Notice Date: September 9^th, 2026

Processing Time: 16 months, 10 days (Premium Processing Upgrade Requested)

Case Summary:

Pioneering Research in Sustainable Biomanufacturing and Biotechnology

The client is a chemical engineering researcher whose work focuses on improving biological production systems for broader industrial and healthcare applications. Holding a Ph.D. in chemical engineering, the client has developed expertise in designing, evaluating, and improving platforms that support more efficient, scalable, and sustainable production methods.

At the time of filing, the client was conducting research at a U.S.-based academic institution, where the client continued work related to biotechnology, biomanufacturing, system optimization, and applied chemical engineering. The proposed endeavor focused on advancing more reliable and cost-effective biological production systems that could support applications in healthcare, diagnostics, energy-related technologies, and other biotechnology areas.

Strategic Framing: How the Petition Demonstrated Major Significance

Rather than assuming strong metrics alone would satisfy the NIW standard, our petition carefully explained how the client’s record demonstrated both research capability and broader field-level relevance:

• Sustained Scientific Productivity: The client authored 8 peer-reviewed journal articles, including 5 first-authored publications, 5 first-authored conference abstracts, and 1 technical report.
• Demonstrated Citatory Influence: The client’s published body of work accumulated 100 citations. The petition explained that independent researchers had relied on the client’s findings in later studies involving biological production systems, diagnostic technologies, biomarker detection, synthetic biology tools, and biomanufacturing workflows.
• Peer Review Authority: The client completed at least 2 peer reviews, showing that the field recognized the client’s expertise and trusted the client to evaluate scholarly work by other researchers.
• Research Support: The petition highlighted that the client’s research had been supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). This helped reinforce the importance of the research area to scientific progress, public health, and national innovation.

Endorsements from Experts in the Field

To reinforce the objective evidence, the petition included 2 recommendation letters, including 1 independent advisory opinion. These letters provided expert perspectives on the client’s technical expertise, research achievements, and ability to continue advancing chemical engineering and biotechnology research in the United States. One expert noted:

“Thus, [Client’s] record of achievement to date more than evidences the indispensability of her research to the United States.”

The Result

After USCIS issued a Request for Evidence (RFE), North America Immigration Law Group prepared a response that strengthened the connection between the client’s Ph.D. training, current research activity, publication record, citation impact, peer-review service, expert support, funded research involvement, and future plans. By combining a clear Dhanasar-based strategy with objective evidence of research influence, the petition demonstrated that the proposed endeavor had substantial merit and national importance, that the client was well positioned to advance it, and that waiving the job offer and labor certification requirements would benefit the United States.

USCIS approved the client’s I-140 National Interest Waiver petition after the RFE response and premium processing upgrade. This approval supports the client’s continued contributions to chemical engineering, sustainable biomanufacturing, biotechnology systems, and applied research innovation in the United States.

Each summary includes the applicant’s category, field, country of birth, current residence, current and proposed role, degree, publication and citation record, recommendation and testimonial letter counts, service center, and premium processing strategy.

EB-1B Approvals (1)

#1: EB-1B in Financial Accounting

Born in China and residing in the United States, this applicant works as an Associate Professor of Accounting (Tenured) and proposes to become an Associate Professor. The EB-1B petition was approved in Financial Accounting.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had no publications and no citations at the time of filing.

The petition proceeded without any supporting letters. The case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center with upfront premium processing.

Notable: Approved in a non-STEM field and without recommendation or testimonial letters.

NIW Approvals (18)

#2: NIW in Molecular Biology

Born in India and residing in the United States, this applicant works as a Postdoctoral Scholar and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Molecular Biology.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 11 publications and 265 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 2 recommendation letters with no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center without premium processing and was approved in 665 days.

#3: NIW in Pediatric Nephrology

A Nepalese-born applicant residing in the United States works as a Pediatric Nephrology Fellow and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Pediatric Nephrology.

The applicant holds an M.B.B.S. degree and had 27 publications and 135 citations at the time of filing.

The petition proceeded without any supporting letters. The case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center without premium processing and was approved in 674 days.

Notable: Approved in a non-STEM field and without recommendation or testimonial letters.

#4: NIW in Human Molecular Genetics

Born in Brazil and residing in the United States, this applicant works as a Postdoctoral Researcher Fellow and proposes to become a Postdoctoral Research Fellow. The NIW petition was approved in Human Molecular Genetics.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 36 publications and 515 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 3 recommendation letters and 1 testimonial letter, the case was adjudicated at the Texas Service Center with upfront premium processing.

#5: NIW in Medicine

An Iranian-born applicant residing in the United States works as an Honorary Fellow and proposes to become a Postdoctoral Researcher. The NIW petition was approved in Medicine.

The applicant holds an M.D. degree and had 360 citations at the time of filing.

The petition proceeded without any supporting letters. The case was adjudicated at the Texas Service Center with a premium processing upgrade. 

Notable: Approved in a non-STEM field and without recommendation or testimonial letters.

#6: NIW in Chemical Engineering

Born in China and residing in the United States, this applicant works as a Postdoctoral Appointee and proposes to become a Senior Cathode Scientist in industry. The NIW petition was approved in Chemical Engineering.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 4 publications and 37 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 4 recommendation letters with no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center without premium processing and was approved in 692 days.

#7: NIW in Applied Linguistics

A Pakistani-born applicant residing in Pakistan works as a Professor in Applied Linguistics and proposes to become an Associate Professor. The NIW petition was approved in Applied Linguistics.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 29 publications and 722 citations at the time of filing.

The petition proceeded without any supporting letters. The case was adjudicated at the Texas Service Center without premium processing and was approved in 694 days. 

Notable: Approved in a non-STEM field while residing outside the United States, and without recommendation or testimonial letters.

#8: NIW in Computational Chemistry

Born in China and residing in the United States, this applicant works as a Senior Scientist in industry and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Computational Chemistry.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 11 publications and 334 citations at the time of filing.

The petition proceeded without any supporting letters. The case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center without premium processing and was approved in 680 days.

Notable: Approved without recommendation or testimonial letters.

#9: NIW in Biomedical Science

A Russian-born applicant residing in the United States works as a Research Associate III and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Biomedical Science.

The applicant holds a master's degree and had 10 publications and 96 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 4 recommendation letters with no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

#10: NIW in Applied Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Earth Observation

Born in Brazil and residing in the United States, this applicant works as a Postdoctoral Scholar and proposes to become a Research and Applications Scientist. The NIW petition was approved in Applied Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Earth Observation.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 18 publications and 657 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 3 recommendation letters and 1 testimonial letter, the case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

#11: NIW in Immune Cell Signaling

A Sri Lankan-born applicant residing in the United States works as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Immune Cell Signaling.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 3 publications and 55 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 2 recommendation letters and 2 testimonial letters, the case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center with upfront premium processing.

#12: NIW in Cancer Research

A Spanish-born applicant residing in the United States works as a Research Associate and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Cancer Research.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 11 publications and 1,094 citations at the time of filing.

No recommendation letters were submitted, but 2 testimonial letters were included. The case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

#13: NIW in Medical Science

Born in Syria and residing in the United States, this applicant works as a Research Fellow and proposes to become an R1 Resident/Fellow. The NIW petition was approved in Medical Science.

The applicant holds an M.D. degree and had 6 publications and 18 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 2 recommendation letters with no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Texas Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

Notable: Approved in a non-STEM field.

#14: NIW in Artificial Intelligence

A Chinese-born applicant residing in the United Kingdom works as an Applied Scientist in industry and proposes to become a Machine Learning Researcher in industry. The NIW petition was approved in Artificial Intelligence.

The applicant holds a master's degree and had 5 publications and 54 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 4 recommendation letters with no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Texas Service Center without premium processing and was approved in 673 days.

#15: NIW in Physical Chemistry

Born in China and residing in the United States, this applicant works as a Postdoctoral Fellow and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Physical Chemistry.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 27 publications and 305 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 4 recommendation letters with no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Texas Service Center without premium processing and was approved in 813 days.

#16: NIW in Behavioral Neuroscience

An Argentine-born applicant residing in the United States works as a Visiting Research Scientist and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Behavioral Neuroscience.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 55 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 4 recommendation letters with no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

Notable: Approved in a non-STEM field.

#17: NIW in Conservation Biology

Born in South Korea and residing in the United States, this applicant works as a Postdoctoral Researcher and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Conservation Biology.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 18 publications and 119 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 2 recommendation letters and 2 testimonial letters, the case was adjudicated at the Service Center Operations Directorate (SCOPS) with a premium processing upgrade.

#18: NIW in Medical Artificial Intelligence

A Nepalese-born applicant residing in the United States works as a Health Informatics Researcher and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Medical Artificial Intelligence.

The applicant holds a master's degree and had 24 publications and 183 citations at the time of filing.

No recommendation letters were submitted, but 1 testimonial letter was included. The case was adjudicated at the Service Center Operations Directorate (SCOPS) with a premium processing upgrade.

#19: NIW in Materials Engineering

Born in Iran and residing in the United States, this applicant is currently a Ph.D. Student and proposes to become an R&D Scientist and Engineer. The NIW petition was approved in Materials Engineering.

The applicant holds a master's degree and had 6 publications and 47 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 2 recommendation letters and no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

The following success stories highlight 6 I-140 approvals involving RFE review or a related adverse petition history. These approvals include 1 EB-1A case and 5 NIW cases. Several cases presented circumstances that added complexity to adjudication, including an applicant residing outside the United States, multiple service center transfers, petitions adjudicated without premium processing, and petitions that initially proceeded with limited or no supporting letters.

Cases With Inherent Challenges

Applicants Residing Outside the United States

One approval involved an applicant who was residing outside the United States in Saudi Arabia at the time of filing. This petition ultimately secured approval after RFE review, showing that residing outside the United States did not prevent the petition from being approved.

Multiple Service Center Transfers

One petition underwent transfers between the Nebraska Service Center and the Texas Service Center, and then back to the Nebraska Service Center during adjudication. Such procedural movement can add administrative complexity because the evidentiary record must remain clearly organized and internally consistent throughout review across different service center operations.

EB-1A Approvals After RFE (1)

#1: EB-1A in Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered 3D Content Creation

This EB-1A approval involved a Research Scientist in industry, born in China and residing in the United States, who proposes to remain in the same employment. Filed in AI-powered 3D Content Creation, the petition received an RFE from the Nebraska Service Center before approval was ultimately secured.

The applicant held a STEM Ph.D. and demonstrated a substantial scholarly record consisting of 11 publications and 1,686 citations, with peer-reviewed work published as recently as 2025. The initial filing included 3 recommendation letters and no testimonial letters, while 3 additional recommendation letters were submitted as part of the RFE response.

The petition was adjudicated through the Nebraska Service Center with upfront premium processing.

NIW Approvals After RFE (5)

#2: NIW in Environmental Science

This NIW approval involved a Ph.D. Student, born in China and residing in Saudi Arabia, who proposes to work as a Postdoctoral Researcher. Filed in Environmental Science, the applicant initially filed an NIW petition, followed by an EB-1A petition. The NIW has been approved, while the EB-1A has received an RFE from Officer XM1443 and is still pending.

The applicant held a STEM master’s degree and demonstrated a scholarly record consisting of 9 publications and 154 citations, with peer-reviewed work published as recently as 2024. The filing proceeded without supporting letters.

The petition was adjudicated through the Nebraska Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

Notable: This approval is notable for securing NIW approval without recommendation or testimonial letters while the applicant was residing outside the United States, despite the related EB-1A petition having received an RFE and remaining pending.

#3: NIW in Software Security

This NIW approval involved a Software Architect in industry, born in Romania and residing in the United States, who proposes to remain in the same employment. Filed in Software Security, the petition received an RFE from Officer XM1771 before approval was ultimately secured.

The applicant held a STEM Ph.D. and demonstrated a scholarly record consisting of 6 publications and 71 citations, with peer-reviewed work published as recently as 2023. The initial filing included 1 recommendation letter and 3 testimonial letters, while 2 additional recommendation letters were submitted with the RFE response.

The petition underwent transfers from the Nebraska Service Center to the Texas Service Center and then back to the Nebraska Service Center with upfront premium processing.

Notable: This approval is notable for securing NIW approval after RFE review while undergoing multiple service center transfers.

#4: NIW in Organic Chemistry

This NIW approval involved a Senior Research Chemist II in industry, born in China and residing in the United States, who proposes to remain in the same employment. Filed in Organic Chemistry, the petition received an RFE from Officer XM2554 before approval was ultimately secured.

The applicant held a STEM Ph.D. and demonstrated a scholarly record consisting of 8 publications and 202 citations, with peer-reviewed work published as recently as 2024. The initial filing included 2 recommendation letters and no testimonial letters, while 2 additional recommendation letters were submitted as part of the RFE response.

The petition was adjudicated through the Texas Service Center without premium processing and was approved in 814 days.

#5: NIW in Electrical and Computer Engineering 

This NIW approval involved a Research Assistant in Machine Learning and Control Theory, born in Lebanon and residing in the United States, who proposes to work as a Postdoctoral Researcher. Filed in Electrical and Computer Engineering, the petition received an RFE from Officer XM2582 before approval was ultimately secured.

The applicant held a STEM master’s degree and demonstrated a scholarly record consisting of 9 publications and 95 citations, with peer-reviewed work published as recently as 2024. The initial filing included 4 recommendation letters and no testimonial letters, while 4 additional recommendation letters were submitted as part of the RFE response.

The petition was adjudicated through the Texas Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

#6: NIW in Computational Biology 

This NIW approval involved a Postdoctoral Scholar, born in India and residing in the United States, who proposes to remain in the same employment. Filed in Computational Biology, the petition received an RFE from Officer XM2417 before approval was ultimately secured.

The applicant held a STEM Ph.D. and demonstrated a scholarly record consisting of 18 publications and 141 citations, with peer-reviewed work published as recently as 2026. The initial filing proceeded without recommendation letters and without testimonial letters, while 6 recommendation letters were submitted as part of the RFE response.

The petition was adjudicated through the Texas Service Center with upfront premium processing.

During the week of September 21 to September 27, 2026, WeGreened received 168 approval notices from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Of these approvals, 143 were for NIW (National Interest Waiver), 21 were for EB1A (Alien of Extraordinary Ability), 2 were for EB1B (Outstanding Professors or Researchers), and 2 were for O1A (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement).

NIW again represented the majority of approvals, while EB1A formed a larger and more varied group across academic, research, and applied professional settings.
 

EB1A and NIW Credential Analysis

EB1A publications ranged from 6 to 52 (Q1: 13, median: 19, Q3: 31), while citations ranged from 117 to 3,830 (Q1: 289, median: 493, Q3: 1,438). The two highest citation records were statistical outliers relative to the rest of the group, while the middle half of approvals fell between 289 and 1,438 citations. The lower end was also notable, with one approval at 117 citations. Together, these figures show that even within EB1A, recognition metrics can vary considerably across fields and professional settings.

Among the 142 NIW cases with a numeric publication count, publications ranged from 2 to 84 (Q1: 6, median: 8, Q3: 14.75). Citations across all 143 NIW approvals ranged from 4 to 4,689 (Q1: 43, median: 132, Q3: 287.5). A relatively small number of highly established profiles drove the upper extremes. The central distribution was considerably more moderate, reinforcing that the typical approved NIW record should not be measured against the most prolific or highly cited applicant in the group.

Insights on Petitioner Backgrounds and Fields

EB1A remained strongly Ph.D.- and STEM-oriented, with 20 Ph.D. holders, 19 STEM approvals, and 2 non-STEM approvals. Unlike NIW, the group included no students or graduate trainees. Research staff formed the largest employment category, followed by postdoctoral researchers, applied technical professionals, and faculty. The field distribution was also unusually balanced, with engineering, biomedical work, and life sciences each contributing five approvals and computing contributing four.

NIW reflected a much broader range of career stages. Students and graduate trainees formed the largest employment group with 45 approvals, followed by 29 postdoctoral researchers and 25 applied technical professionals. Biomedical, clinical, and public health fields accounted for 42 approvals, while engineering and computing contributed 33 and 32, respectively. The educational mix included 74 Ph.D. holders, 45 master’s-level petitioners, 16 applicants with medical or dental qualifications, and 8 applicants without advanced degrees. These results illustrate how NIW cases can emerge from distinct professional pathways, provided that the correct underlying EB2 qualification and the separate national interest waiver requirements are established.

Highlighted EB1A Case: Pharmaceutical Scientist Approved After RFE With 9 Publications and 117 Citations

One of this week’s most instructive EB1A approvals involved a pharmaceutical scientist whose filing-stage record included 9 peer-reviewed articles, 117 citations, and at least 28 completed peer reviews. The petition was processed under premium processing. USCIS accepted the judging and scholarly-authorship criteria but issued a Request for Evidence seeking further support for original contributions of major significance, a leading or critical role, and the petition as a whole under the Final Merits Determination.

For original contributions, our response did not treat the citation total as a complete measure of significance. We placed individual publications in the context of their field and publication year. Two of the petitioner’s articles had citation rates approximately 3.79 and 4.76 times their corresponding field averages. The updated record included 131 citations, of which 118 were documented as independent, and the citations came from researchers across 28 countries. We also analyzed representative citing papers to show how other researchers used the petitioner’s findings in subsequent pharmaceutical formulation, drug-delivery, and biomaterials research. This structure connected the petitioner’s specific work to independent use and broader influence in the field.

For the leading or critical role criterion, we separated two questions that USCIS had raised: what the petitioner personally contributed and whether the relevant organization and research division had a distinguished reputation. A detailed employer letter described the petitioner’s contributions to product development, manufacturing scale-up, technology transfer, regulatory approval, commercialization, and a company-wide design-control framework. We paired that account with objective documentation of the organization’s regulatory accomplishments, research capabilities, manufacturing scale, distribution reach, and industry recognition. This allowed the officer to evaluate both the importance of the petitioner’s performance and the standing of the organization in which that role was performed.

The letter strategy added another layer of support. The original filing included six expert letters, five of which were independent opinions from specialists familiar with the petitioner’s work through her publications rather than direct collaboration. The RFE response then paired a detailed employer letter with an additional independent advisory opinion and objective supporting records. Finally, we brought the accepted judging and authorship criteria together with the strengthened evidence of research influence and critical industry responsibility under the Final Merits Determination. The petition was ultimately approved after the RFE response.

This approval illustrates why an EB1A case should not be evaluated through raw citation totals alone. Field-specific comparisons, documented independent use, detailed evidence of an applicant’s organizational role, and a cohesive Final Merits presentation can give USCIS a clearer basis for evaluating sustained recognition and field-level standing.

Adjudication Trends and Policy Observations

Recent USCIS policy changes make the quality of both the initial filing and any subsequent RFE response increasingly important. In August 2026, USCIS updated its adjudication guidance to restore officers’ discretion to deny certain benefit requests without first issuing a Request for Evidence or Notice of Intent to Deny when required initial evidence is missing or the record does not establish eligibility. USCIS guidance also permits response periods shorter than the maximum allowed in appropriate circumstances. These developments place greater importance on presenting a complete and well-supported record from the outset rather than assuming that every evidentiary issue will result in an opportunity to supplement the case later.

When USCIS does issue an RFE, however, the Policy Manual provides that the notice should identify which eligibility requirement has not been established, explain why the existing evidence is insufficient, and identify the additional evidence being requested. This makes the wording of the RFE itself an important roadmap for preparing the response. In this week’s highlighted EB1A case, USCIS had already accepted the judging and scholarly-authorship criteria while raising specific concerns about original contributions, the petitioner’s leading or critical role, and the overall Final Merits Determination. Our response therefore focused on those specific issues rather than rebuilding the petition from the beginning.

From our firm’s perspective, overcoming an RFE is not simply a matter of submitting more documents. The response must identify exactly what the officer is questioning, determine which evidence already in the record addresses that concern, and reinforce the argument with targeted objective documentation where appropriate. In the highlighted case, that meant placing citation impact in field-specific context, documenting independent use of the petitioner’s research, and separately establishing both the importance of the petitioner’s role and the distinguished reputation of the organization in which that role was performed. The approval illustrates why a focused legal and evidentiary response can be especially important in the current adjudication environment.

“Thank you so much for everything you have done for me. I truly appreciate all of your hard work, dedication, and support throughout this process. Especially under such difficult circumstances, your team managed to achieve the best possible outcome for my case, and I am incredibly grateful. Congratulations to your amazing team as well! This approval is a great achievement, and I sincerely want to congratulate everyone who worked on my case. Everything from the very beginning was handled even better than I had expected. Thank you again for your professionalism, guidance, and patience throughout this journey.”

On September 7^th, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Field of Biomedical Sciences (Approval Notice).

General Field: Biomedical Sciences

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Postdoctoral Researcher

Country of Origin: Iran

Country of Residence at the Time of Filing: Canada

Approval Notice Date: September 7^th, 2026

Processing Time: 7 months, 18 days (Premium Processing Updated Requested)

Case Summary:

We are pleased to share the I-140 National Interest Waiver (NIW) approval of a biomedical sciences researcher. Holding a Ph.D. in health sciences, the client currently conducts research evaluating natural plant compounds, molecular microbiology mechanisms, and cardiovascular and renal function.

The client’s research addresses critical healthcare challenges related to the expanding national burden of hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. These contributions align directly with U.S. healthcare priorities, including national initiatives to reduce chronic disease prevalence, improve metabolic health, and alleviate the immense financial burden on the national healthcare system.

At the time of filing, the client had authored 4 peer-reviewed journal articles (3 first-authored) in leading international scientific venues. His published body of work had accumulated 394 citations from independent researchers worldwide. Bibliometric percentile data showed that two of his publications ranked among the top 10% and top 20% most-cited articles in his field for their respective publication years. Rather than presenting metrics as self-evidently sufficient, we analyzed how adjudicators view high citation volume, premier publication placement, and top percentile rankings as objective evidence of sustained field-wide influence.

Field experts highlighted the client’s specialized ability to integrate phytochemical analysis, molecular biology, and experimental modeling. Expert testimonials further corroborated the practical necessity and clinical value of his ongoing research in natural product development.

USCIS approved the client’s I-140 NIW petition, recognizing the national importance of his work in biomedical sciences, particularly his efforts to advance safe, plant-based therapeutics for hypertension and metabolic disorders. This outcome supports his continued contributions to healthcare innovation and chronic disease management in the United States. We congratulate him on this approval and wish him continued success.

"Thank you for all the work you put in and for your expertise in getting the case accepted. It was a pleasure working with you.”

On September 10^th, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Graduate Research Assistant in the Field of Artificial Intelligence (Approval Notice).

General Field: Artificial Intelligence

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Graduate Research Assistant

Country of Origin: Saudi Arabia

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Florida

Approval Notice Date: September 10^th, 2026

Processing Time: 11 months, 4 days (Premium Processing Upgrade Requested)

Case Summary:

We are pleased to share the I-140 National Interest Waiver (NIW) approval of an artificial intelligence researcher whose work advances the safety, reliability, and transparency of large-scale AI systems. The client holds a master’s degree in computer science and engineering and currently conducts research at a major U.S. university. 

The client’s research addresses critical technological, healthcare, and governance challenges related to the rapid integration of artificial intelligence. Unresolved issues regarding behavioral unpredictability, opaque decision-making, and vulnerability to adversarial inputs create serious risks for public trust and institutional service delivery. By investigating internal representational weaknesses and developing fine-grained control mechanisms, his work improves system robustness and safety. 

To establish the client's standing, the petition highlighted his scholarly record of 3 peer-reviewed conference articles and 3 preprints (1 first-authored). In computer science, peer-reviewed conference proceedings represent the primary and most competitive venue for scholarly publication. His body of work has accumulated 19 citations from independent researchers. Rather than presenting these metrics as self-evidently sufficient, we analyzed how independent scholars actively apply his white-box testing frameworks and representation analyses to evaluate fairness, identify structural flaws in vision systems, and expose vulnerabilities in multimodal reasoning models.

The petition was further supported by an independent recommendation letter from an expert who validated the technical value and practical necessity of the client's research.

As the expert noted:

"In sum, [Client’s] skills in gradient-based optimization, representation learning, and large language model behavior analysis have allowed him to make exceptional contributions to our ongoing work."

Although USCIS issued a Request for Evidence (RFE) during adjudication, our legal team successfully demonstrated how independent scientists rely on the client's methodologies and how conference publications represent high-quality scholarly achievements in computer science. USCIS approved the I-140 NIW petition, recognizing the national importance of his contributions to artificial intelligence safety and transparency. We congratulate the client on this outcome and wish him continued success in the United States.

"Really appreciate all your help throughout the process!”

On September 9^th, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Mechanical Engineer Researcher in the Field of Mechanical Engineering (Approval Notice).

General Field: Mechanical Engineering/ Computer Science

Position at the Time of Case Filing: AI Engineer Researcher

Country of Origin: Iran

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Pennsylvania

Approval Notice Date: September 9^th, 2026

Processing Time: 19 months, 4 days (Premium Processing Upgrade Requested)

Case Summary:

We are pleased to announce the I-140 National Interest Waiver (NIW) petition approval for a mechanical engineering researcher specializing in artificial intelligence applications for healthcare. The client holds a Master of Science degree in mechanical engineering and currently works as a mechanical engineer research scientist at a private consulting firm.

National Significance & Research Focus

The client’s research directly addresses a major public health challenge: adverse drug reactions, which represent a leading cause of preventable mortality globally. This work directly supports U.S. national interests by improving patient safety, optimizing clinical decision-making, and mitigating the immense economic burden of national healthcare expenditures. Furthermore, her research advances federally designated Critical and Emerging Technology areas, specifically artificial intelligence and advanced computing.

Substantiating Field Impact and Overcoming the RFE

To establish eligibility under Matter of Dhanasar, our legal team presented a comprehensive record of the client's academic and practical achievements:

• Scholarly Dissemination: Authorship of 2 peer-reviewed journal articles (1 first-authored) and 1 first-authored peer-reviewed conference paper.
• Citation Impact & Percentiles: Accumulation of 36 citations across her published body of work. Rather than presenting raw figures alone, we contextualized these metrics using bibliometric data to prove to the adjudicator that her first-authored paper on soft robotic actuator optimization ranked in the top 20% most-cited engineering articles for its publication year.
• Practical Implementation: Concrete evidence showing that independent international researchers actively rely on her algorithms and modeling frameworks to advance assistive robotics, load redistribution systems, and autonomous designs.

During adjudication, USCIS issued a Request for Evidence (RFE) questioning the petition. In response, our team provided additional objective evidence and detailed arguments demonstrating how her past mechanical engineering breakthroughs in AI-driven soft robotics laid the exact technical foundation required to advance clinical decision-making algorithms.

Expert Testimony & Conclusion

The petition was further corroborated by 2 recommendation letters from independent and field experts who confirmed the national value and technical necessity of her endeavor. As one expert highlighted:

"She has been and will continue to be an extraordinary scientist, making original scientific contributions vital to the national interests of the United States."

Following our detailed RFE response, USCIS approved the client's EB-2 NIW petition, validating her continued contributions to clinical AI and mechanical engineering in the United States.

"I had a great experience working with NAILG on my green card application. They were very prompt in responding to my questions and took the time to address detailed questions about my specific situation. The green card process can be complicated, particularly when your field is very specialized, but they handled this well and provided clear guidance on what they needed from me at each stage. I really appreciated their responsiveness, expertise, and attention to detail.”

On August 15^th, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Ph.D. Candidate in the Field of Biological Sciences (Approval Notice).

General Field: Biological Sciences

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Ph.D. Candidate

Country of Origin: South Korea

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: New Jersey

Approval Notice Date: August 15^th, 2026

Processing Time: 17 months, 9 days (Premium Processing Requested)

Case Summary:

USCIS issued a Request for Evidence (RFE) questioning whether the client's proposed endeavor had national importance and whether her existing record sufficiently established that she was well positioned to carry it forward. In particular, the RFE raised concerns that the record did not adequately demonstrate how her work had been utilized by others and questioned the significance of her prior achievements. North America Immigration Law Group (Chen Immigration Law Associates) therefore structured the response around concrete evidence of research uptake, comparative citation performance, federal support, and the client's specific plans for continued work.

The client's proposed endeavor centered on using computational and empirical methods to uncover the complex genetic and environmental factors contributing to severe diseases. Her future research involved investigating demographic-specific risk factors and applying advanced genetic screening to complex neurological and developmental conditions. The RFE response directly connected these plans to major U.S. healthcare challenges, highlighting the substantial clinical and economic burdens associated with these disorders. It further established how identifying underlying biological mechanisms supports the development of more effective diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic strategies.

A major part of the response focused on putting the client's research record into meaningful context. By the time of the RFE response, her work had accumulated 215 citations, up from 118 citations at the initial filing. Her credentials included:

• 7 peer-reviewed journal articles, 5 abstracts, and 2 preprints
• 215 citations
• Research projects supported by the National Institutes of Health and the Veterans Health Administration Office of Research and Development

The RFE response successfully demonstrated how independent researchers had actively incorporated the client's findings into subsequent clinical work. Her research on the molecular mechanisms of aging was utilized by scientists studying cellular dysfunction, age-related respiratory changes, and severe disease risk. Furthermore, her discoveries concerning disease biomarkers informed advanced research involving organ transplantation and the progression of chronic fibrotic conditions. These concrete examples directly addressed USCIS's concern regarding the practical utilization of her work, while evidence of implementation by researchers across five continents further underscored her widespread global reach.

The response further strengthened the record with additional testimonial evidence. While the original petition included 2 recommendation letters, the RFE response submitted 3 additional testimonial letters, including opinions from experts who had not collaborated with the client. These letters addressed both the national relevance of her proposed work and her ability to continue advancing research on genetic, environmental, and molecular factors associated with neuropsychiatric disorders.

A premium processing upgrade was submitted on February 27th, 2026. Following the RFE issued on March 24th, 2026, NAILG prepared a response that supplemented the original record and directly addressed the adjudicator's concerns regarding national importance and the client's positioning to advance her endeavor. USCIS ultimately approved the NIW petition on August 15th, 2026, after a total processing period of 17 months and 9 days. The approval allowed this biological sciences researcher to move forward with work aimed at clarifying the complex biological and environmental factors underlying serious diseases and supporting more informed approaches to diagnosis, prevention, and treatment.

“Thank you very much for your support and guidance throughout my EB-2 NIW petition process. I truly appreciate all your help and the effort your team put into preparing my petition.”

On September 8^th, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Graduate Research Assistant in the Field of Optical Spectroscopy (Approval Notice).

General Field: Optical Spectroscopy

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Graduate Research Assistant

Country of Origin: Nepal

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Alabama

Approval Notice Date: September 8^th, 2026

Processing Time: 2 months, 17 days (Premium Processing Upgrade Requested)

Case Summary:

Our client, an optical spectroscopy researcher holding a Master of Science in physics, sought an EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) to continue her research in the United States. By developing rapid, highly sensitive analytical techniques, her endeavor improves environmental monitoring capabilities, strengthens drinking water safety, and supports timely public health interventions across the nation.

Strategic Case Presentation

To demonstrate that the client was well-positioned to advance this endeavor under the Matter of Dhanasar framework, our team structured a comprehensive petition highlighting her established track record and field-wide influence:

• Publication Record: Authorship of 1 first-authored peer-reviewed journal article, 3 conference abstracts (1 first-authored), and 3 preprints.

• Citation Impact & Percentiles: Accumulation of 22 citations across her published body of work. Rather than presenting raw figures as self-evidently sufficient, we provided bibliometric percentile data to demonstrate to an adjudicator that her first-authored paper ranks in the top 10% of most-cited physics articles for its publication year.

• Independent Field Reliance: Concrete evidence showing that independent international research teams actively cite and implement her spectroscopic calibration strategies and soil contamination monitoring frameworks in their own environmental analyses.

National Impact and Outcome

We clearly linked the client’s computational and experimental research to urgent federal priorities. Her endeavor directly advances Critical and Emerging Technologies, specifically environmental-sector sensing and advanced manufacturing, aligning with federal goals for public health protection and water quality management. The national significance of her research was further validated by major research funding from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS).

USCIS acknowledged the clear national importance and field impact of the client's work, approving her I-140 NIW petition in over 2 months.

“The team is very knowledgeable and really knows what they are doing. I was impressed by the prompt responses and professionalism and felt heard when I gave the team feedback on their drafts, which were thorough and effective. I am so glad I went with Chen to get the petition approved with no RFE. Thank you so much for your help.”

On September 9^th, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Scientist in the Field of Materials Science (Approval Notice).

General Field: Materials Science

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Scientist

Country of Origin: South Korea

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: California

Approval Notice Date: September 9^th, 2026

Processing Time: 2 months, 18 days

Case Summary:

The client’s work demonstrated how advances in materials science could help address challenges far beyond the materials themselves. Holding a Ph.D. in materials science and engineering, the client specializes in biomaterials and proposed continuing the development of biodegradable materials and perfusable tissue platforms that supported stem cell growth and long-term tissue function. North America Immigration Law Group (Chen Immigration Law Associates) presented this endeavor as research with potential benefits for maternal health, biomedical innovation, and regenerative therapies in the United States.

The client had already established a strong research foundation before pursuing this next stage of work. The client's record included 6 peer-reviewed journal articles, published in respected materials science and biomaterials journals. These publications had accumulated 149 citations. The client had also been invited to evaluate the research of other scientists, completing at least 1 peer review for a scientific journal.

The petition demonstrated how independent researchers actively built upon the client’s findings. Outside studies had utilized this work to better understand how structural design and material dynamics enhanced the delivery and efficacy of biologically active components. These concrete examples established that the client's research provided foundational principles for scientists engineering advanced biomaterials with improved therapeutic and clinical functionality. This previous research had also received support from the U.S. Department of Energy and the National Institutes of Health, further documenting the recognized value of the work.

Looking forward, the client planned to translate this expertise into advanced biomaterials that closely replicated natural cellular environments. The client's ongoing work included developing specialized systems that supported complex tissue development and engineering advanced platforms for sustained biological function. NAILG directly connected these innovations to critical U.S. healthcare needs in regenerative medicine, demonstrating how these technologies improved complex clinical outcomes and advanced vital research in organ repair and replacement.

The approval supported the client’s continued pursuit of materials science research that bridged biomaterial design with practical biomedical applications, creating new possibilities for regenerative medicine and improved reproductive health.

“Thank you so much for letting me know my case got approved!”

On September 4^th, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Sr. Analytical Chemistry Engineer in the Field of Analytical Chemistry (Approval Notice).

General Field: Analytical Chemistry

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Sr. Analytical Chemistry Engineer

Country of Origin: Taiwan

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Minnesota

Approval Notice Date: September 4^th, 2026

Processing Time: 1 month, 26 days (Premium Processing Requested)

Case Summary:

“What does it take to successfully secure a National Interest Waiver?” In this case, it required demonstrating how specialized expertise in analytical chemistry and functional materials research could support technological innovation, industrial competitiveness, and the safe deployment of advanced sensing and energy-related technologies.

North America Immigration Law Group is pleased to celebrate the approval of an I-140 National Interest Waiver (NIW) petition for a client holding a Ph.D. in chemistry. The petition demonstrated how the client’s objective record of achievement and current employment as a senior analytical/wet chemistry engineer satisfied the NIW standard by advancing an endeavor of substantial merit and national importance.

Securing Next-Generation Materials Through Advanced Analytical Chemistry

The client’s proposed endeavor focuses on applying specialized knowledge and research experience to advance scientific and technological development in the United States. The work involves analyzing materials, improving research methods, and contributing to the development of innovative solutions with potential applications across multiple industries.

Rather than limiting the endeavor to a specific employer or project, we connected the client’s work to broader U.S. interests, including scientific progress, technological innovation, industrial competitiveness, and the continued development of advanced technologies. This broader context helped establish that the endeavor had national importance beyond the client’s individual position or workplace.

Contextualizing Objective Metrics for the Adjudicator

A critical element of the petition was proving that the client was well positioned to advance this endeavor through a documented record of independent scientific influence. We presented the following objective indicators:

• 6 peer-reviewed journal articles, including 2 first-authored publications

   

• 2 conference abstracts, including 1 first-authored abstract

• 2 patent applications

• 232 scholarly citations

• 1 paper ranked among the top 20% most-cited Materials Science articles for its publication year

To demonstrate the client’s significance, we showed that independent researchers had relied on the client’s findings in later studies involving functional nanomaterials, environmental remediation, biomedical material design, controlled nanostructure engineering, and related analytical chemistry applications. We also explained that the client’s work had been published in respected venues and cited by other researchers, helping show that the client’s contributions had practical value beyond publication.

The Result

This approved NIW petition showcased a cohesive narrative connecting the client’s analytical chemistry background to the need for advanced functional materials, reliable detection approaches, and improved material characterization in the United States. USCIS approved the client’s I-140 National Interest Waiver petition without a Request for Evidence through Direct Premium Processing. This approval supports the client’s continued contributions to analytical chemistry, functional materials research, sensing technologies, advanced material characterization, and technology innovation in the United States.

“Chen's extensive data and experience helped them adjust effectively to heightened USCIS scrutiny. While the workflow isn't flawless, their strategy works—I definitely recommend them.”

On September 3^rd, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Graduate Student in the Field of Cellular and Molecular Immunology (Approval Notice).

General Field: Cellular and Molecular Immunology

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Graduate Student

Country of Origin: Germany

Country of Residence at the Time of Filing: Germany

Approval Notice Date: September 3^rd, 2026

Processing Time: 2 months, 4 days (Premium Processing Upgrade Requested)

Case Summary:

The client’s work focuses on cellular and molecular immunology, immune responses, infectious disease research, and the development of potential therapeutic strategies. Through the exceptional ability pathway, the client sought NIW classification based on a strong record of research achievement, professional recognition, and plans to continue advancing work in an important area of biomedical research. With a background in clinical medicine, the client has conducted research involving immune mechanisms, disease-related protection, and the development of improved approaches to understanding and treating complex health conditions.

The petition explained that this research addresses a significant public health need rather than a purely academic question. The client’s proposed endeavor was to continue applying advanced research methods to study disease-related biological processes and support the development of more effective, targeted therapeutic strategies.

The client had secured an upcoming research role in a U.S.-based biomedical research institute, where he would continue investigating immune responses, tissue barriers, and disease-related immune mechanisms. This planned work aligned closely with the proposed endeavor and helped show that the client was positioned to continue advancing the same field of research in the United States.

To show that the client was well positioned to advance this endeavor, the petition relied on a substantial record of scholarly output, citation impact, peer recognition, and expert support. The client’s record included 6 peer-reviewed journal articles, 3 preprints, 1,052 citations, and at least 11 completed peer reviews for journals in immunology and related fields. Rather than presenting these figures as automatically persuasive, the petition explained how they reflected meaningful reliance by other researchers and professional recognition within cellular and molecular immunology.

The petition also documented research funding from major biomedical sources, including support connected to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), and the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS). These fundings served as additional evidence that recognized organizations had considered the client’s research sufficiently valuable and credible to warrant financial support, while also demonstrating access to the resources necessary to continue advancing his proposed endeavor.

The petition further demonstrated the client’s significance by showing that other researchers had relied on his work in cellular and molecular immunology and related areas of biomedical research. Several of the client’s papers ranked among the most highly cited Immunology articles for their publication years, including 3 papers in the top 1%, 2 papers in the top 10%, and 1 paper in the top 20%. These comparisons helped place the citation record in context and showed that the client’s work had received recognition beyond ordinary publication.

The case was also supported by 2 recommendation letters from experts in the field. These letters helped explain the client’s technical role in advancing immune memory and antibody evolution research, while also connecting his record to the broader need for improved infectious disease therapeutics and public health strategies. One expert noted:

“There is thus no doubt that [Client] will continue to produce impactful work that benefits public well-being on a global scale.”

With a premium processing upgrade requested, the client’s I-140 NIW petition was approved without a Request for Evidence in 2 months and 4 days. This approval reflects the successful presentation of a case grounded in cellular and molecular immunology expertise, substantial citation impact, independent scholarly reliance, peer-review recognition, expert support, and the national importance of advancing biomedical innovation in the United States.

"Thanks again for all your help and support throughout the process.”

On September 9^th, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a PhD Student in the Field of Computer Science (Approval Notice).

General Field: Computer Science

Position at the Time of Case Filing: PhD Student

Country of Origin: Pakistan

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Texas

Approval Notice Date: September 9^th, 2026

Processing Time: 2 months, 18 days (Premium Processing Upgrade Requested)

Case Summary:

With an M.S. in information and communication engineering, the client has developed a strong research record in computer science. His work broadly focuses on artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, autonomous systems, and related computational technologies. Building on this background, he proposed continuing research to develop more effective, reliable, and responsible technologies for use in complex systems. The client is currently conducting research at a U.S.-based academic institution, where he applies advanced computational methods to address challenges in the development and operation of intelligent technologies.

In preparing his I-140 National Interest Waiver (NIW) petition, we emphasized the connection between this research and important U.S. priorities in AI, robotics, defense-related technologies, aerospace, and critical infrastructure. As AI systems are increasingly used in high-impact environments, there is a growing need for technologies that are not only powerful, but also reliable, transparent, and aligned with human needs. We therefore demonstrated that the client’s proposed endeavor could contribute to this broader national need by supporting the development of safer and more trustworthy autonomous systems.

His established research record also provided important evidence that he was well positioned to pursue this endeavor. The client had authored 5 peer-reviewed journal articles, including 3 first-authored articles, 17 peer-reviewed conference articles, including 8 first-authored articles, and 3 accepted works. His published research had accumulated 361 citations. Rather than presenting this citation total as sufficient by itself, we contextualized its significance by showing that several of his papers ranked among highly cited Computer Science articles for their respective publication years, including 4 papers in the top 10% and 3 papers in the top 20%.

Independent researchers had also relied on the client’s findings in later studies involving fair decision-making, multi-agent learning, autonomous systems, resource allocation, interpretable artificial intelligence, and reinforcement learning. This evidence helped demonstrate that the client’s research had practical scholarly value beyond publication and had contributed to continued progress in the field.

Professional trust provided another dimension to the case. The client had completed at least 50 peer reviews for respected journals and conferences, showing that scholarly venues repeatedly relied on his expertise to evaluate the work of other researchers. The petition was further supported by 4 recommendation letters, including 3 independent advisory opinions, which explained the value of the client’s contributions and his ability to continue advancing research in computer science.

“In conclusion, [Client] is an irreplaceable asset to both the United States and the field of machine learning.”

Taken together, the client’s publication record, citation impact, peer-review service, independent scholarly reliance, expert support, and ongoing U.S.-based research allowed us to demonstrate both past scientific impact and a credible path toward future contributions. USCIS approved the client’s I-140 NIW petition after a premium processing upgrade was requested, supporting his continued work in computer science, trustworthy artificial intelligence, reinforcement learning, and autonomous systems in the United States.

"Thank you so much for sharing the great news and for your help and support throughout the whole process. It was really my pleasure working with your team during O1A preparation.”

On August 25^th, 2026, we received another O1-A (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement) approval for a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Field of Aquaculture (Approval Notice).

General Field: Aquaculture

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Postdoctoral Researcher

Country of Origin: Egypt

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Indiana

Approval Notice Date: August 25^th, 2026

Processing Time: 19 days (Premium Processing Requested)

Case Summary:

The client is currently an assistant professor at a U.S. university where they manage hatchery operations, lead funded research programs, and instruct students. Working within the highly specialized field of aquaculture, the client’s research focuses on designing and optimizing sustainable aquaculture and aquaponics systems.

To secure the approval, our legal strategy focused on framing the client’s academic metrics not merely as standard career milestones, but as definitive proof of sustained international acclaim. We demonstrated the client’s extraordinary ability by highlighting the following credentials:

• Scholarly Authorship: The client has authored 20 peer-reviewed scientific articles and 21 conference abstracts.
• Citation Impact: The client's work has amassed 369 citations.
• Peer Review: The client has conducted at least 60 peer reviews.

To further corroborate the objective metrics, we also included 2 independent letters of recommendation from internationally renowned experts who have not worked with the client personally, but who rely heavily on their published findings.

By thoroughly contextualizing the client's record of major significance and broad implementation, we successfully demonstrated their extraordinary ability. The petition was filed with Direct Premium Processing and was approved without any Request for Evidence.

The following success stories highlight 5 NIW I-140 approvals after RFE review. Several cases presented circumstances that added complexity to adjudication, including an applicant without an advanced degree who claimed eligibility through exceptional ability and a bachelor's degree plus at least five years of progressive work experience pathway, multiple service center transfers, and a petition that initially proceeded without supporting letters.

Cases With Inherent Challenges

Applicant Without an Advanced Degree

One applicant did not hold an advanced degree and claimed eligibility through both exceptional ability and a bachelor's degree plus at least five years of progressive work experience. This case presented additional complexity because the applicant's qualifications and supporting evidence needed to establish eligibility under the applicable NIW classification without relying on an advanced degree.

Multiple Service Center Transfers

Several petitions underwent transfers between the Nebraska Service Center and the Texas Service Center during adjudication. Such procedural movement can add administrative complexity because the evidentiary record must remain clearly organized and internally consistent throughout review across different service center operations.

NIW Approvals After RFE (5)

#1: NIW in Biomaterial

This NIW approval involved a Ph.D. Student, born in China and residing in the United States, who proposes to work as an Assistant Professor. Filed in Biomaterial, the petition received an RFE from Officer XM1452 before approval was ultimately secured.

The applicant held a STEM master’s degree and demonstrated a scholarly record consisting of 10 publications and 85 citations, with peer-reviewed work published as recently as 2023. The initial filing included 1 recommendation letter and no testimonial letters, while 3 additional recommendation letters were submitted with the RFE response.

The petition was adjudicated through the Texas Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

#2: NIW in Cancer Immunotherapy

This NIW approval involved a Research Associate, born in South Korea and residing in the United States, who proposes to remain in the same employment. Filed in Cancer Immunotherapy, the petition received an RFE from Officer XM2030 before approval was ultimately secured.

The applicant did not hold an advanced degree and claimed eligibility through both the exceptional ability pathway and a bachelor's degree plus at least five years of progressive experience. At filing, the applicant demonstrated a scholarly record consisting of 7 publications and 44 citations, with peer-reviewed work published as recently as 2025. The initial filing proceeded without recommendation letters and included 2 testimonial letters, while 1 recommendation letter was submitted as part of the RFE response.

The petition underwent transfers from the Nebraska Service Center to the Texas Service Center and then back to the Nebraska Service Center with upfront premium processing.

Notable: This approval is notable for securing NIW approval after RFE review through the exceptional ability pathway and a bachelor's degree plus at least five years of progressive work experience while also undergoing multiple service center transfers.

#3: NIW in Physics

This NIW approval involved a Ph.D. Student (Research Assistant & Teaching Assistant), born in Pakistan and residing in the United States, who proposes to work as a Research Scientist. Filed in Physics, the petition received an RFE from Officer XM2055 before approval was ultimately secured.

The applicant held a STEM master’s degree and demonstrated a scholarly record consisting of 4 publications and 33 citations, with peer-reviewed work published as recently as 2024. The initial filing included 4 recommendation letters and no testimonial letters, while 3 additional recommendation letters were submitted with the RFE response.

The petition underwent transfers from the Nebraska Service Center to the Texas Service Center and then back to the Nebraska Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

Notable: This approval is notable for securing NIW approval after RFE review while undergoing multiple service center transfers.

#4: NIW in Artificial Intelligence

This NIW approval involved a Ph.D. Student / Graduate Research Assistant, born in Vietnam and residing in the United States, who proposes to work as a Research Scientist. Filed in Artificial Intelligence, the petition received an RFE from Officer XM2115 before approval was ultimately secured.

The applicant held a STEM master’s degree and demonstrated a scholarly record consisting of 7 publications and 78 citations, with peer-reviewed work published as recently as 2025. The initial filing proceeded without any supporting letters, while 4 recommendation letters were submitted as part of the RFE response.

The petition was transferred from the Texas Service Center to the Nebraska Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

#5: NIW in Microbiology

This NIW approval involved a Postdoctoral Associate, born in Thailand and residing in the United States, who proposes to work as a Research Microbiologist. Filed in Microbiology, the petition received an RFE from Officer XM2616 before approval was ultimately secured.

The applicant held a STEM Ph.D. and demonstrated a scholarly record consisting of 10 publications and 91 citations, with peer-reviewed work published as recently as 2024. The initial filing included 4 recommendation letters and no testimonial letters, while 3 additional recommendation letters were submitted with the RFE response.

The petition underwent transfers from the Nebraska Service Center to the Texas Service Center and then back to the Nebraska Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

Notable: This approval is notable for securing NIW approval after RFE review while undergoing multiple service center transfers.

Each summary includes the applicant’s category, field, country of birth, current residence, current and proposed role, degree, publication and citation record, recommendation and testimonial letter counts, service center, and premium processing strategy.

NIW Approvals (10)

#1: NIW in Medicine

Born in Pakistan and residing in the United States, this applicant works as an Assistant Professor and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Medicine.

The applicant holds an MBBS degree and had 18 publications and 147 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 4 recommendation letters with no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Texas Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

Notable: Approved in a non-STEM field.

#2: NIW in Distributed Systems

A Chinese-born applicant residing in the United States works as a Member of Technical Staff in industry and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Distributed Systems.

The applicant holds a master’s degree and had 2 publications and 125 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 2 recommendation letters and 2 testimonial letters, the case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center with upfront premium processing.

#3: NIW in Rheumatology

Born in Turkey and residing in the United States, this applicant works as a Resident - Internal Medicine and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Rheumatology.

The applicant holds an M.D. degree and had 21 publications and 92 citations at the time of filing.

No recommendation letters were submitted, but 2 testimonial letters were included. The case was adjudicated at the Texas Service Center with upfront premium processing.

Notable: Approved in a non-STEM field.

#4: NIW in Computer Science

A Bangladeshi-born applicant residing in the United States is currently a Ph.D. Student (Research Assistant) and proposes to become a Postdoctoral Researcher. The NIW petition was approved in Computer Science.

The applicant holds a master’s degree and had 22 publications and 48 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 2 recommendation letters with no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

#5: NIW in Internet of Things

Born in China and residing in the United States, this applicant works as an Applied Scientist in industry and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Internet of Things.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 29 publications and 923 citations at the time of filing.

No recommendation letters were submitted, but 2 testimonial letters were included. The case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

#6: NIW in Endocrine Pharmacology

A Taiwanese-born applicant residing in the United States works as a Scientist I and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Endocrine Pharmacology.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 48 publications and 356 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 1 recommendation letter and 2 testimonial letters, the case was adjudicated at the Texas Service Center with upfront premium processing.

#7: NIW in Biostatistics

Born in China and residing in the United States, this applicant works as a Postdoctoral Fellow and proposes to become an Assistant Professor. The NIW petition was approved in Biostatistics.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 8 publications and 18 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 4 recommendation letters with no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Texas Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

#8: NIW in Computational Biomechanics

A French-born applicant residing in the United States works as a Postdoctoral Researcher and proposes to remain in the same role. The NIW petition was approved in Computational Biomechanics.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 6 publications and 24 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 2 recommendation letters with no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center with a premium processing upgrade.

Notable: Approved in a non-STEM field.

#9: NIW in Mathematical Physics

A Pakistani-born applicant residing in Pakistan works as an Associate Professor and proposes to become a Research Scientist. The NIW petition was approved in Mathematical Physics.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 26 publications and 742 citations at the time of filing.

The petition proceeded without any supporting letters. The case was adjudicated at the Texas Service Center without premium processing and was approved in 781 days.

Notable: Approved without recommendation or testimonial letters while the applicant was residing outside the United States.

#10: NIW in Cardiovascular Medicine

Born in Iran and residing in the United States, this applicant works as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow and proposes to become a Postdoctoral Research Associate - Cardiology. The NIW petition was approved in Cardiovascular Medicine.

The applicant holds an M.D. degree and had 3 publications and 24 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 1 recommendation letter and 1 testimonial letter, the case was adjudicated at the Nebraska Service Center with upfront premium processing.

Notable: Approved in a non-STEM field.

O-1A Extension Approval (1)

#11: O-1A Extension in Environmental Engineering

A Chinese-born applicant residing in the United States works as a Hydrology & Hydraulics Project Manager in industry and proposes to remain in the same role. The O-1A extension petition was approved in Environmental Engineering.

The applicant holds a Ph.D. and had 40 publications and 1,004 citations at the time of filing.

Supported by 4 recommendation letters with no testimonial letters submitted, the case was adjudicated at the Vermont Service Center without premium processing and was approved in 443 days.

Notable: Approved in a non-STEM field.

"Chen Immigration Team offers unparalleled expertise and service! I wish I had found them sooner!”

On August 21^st, 2026, we received another EB-1B (Outstanding Professors and Researchers) approval for a Senior Technical Lead in the Field of Chemical Engineering (Approval Notice).

General Field: Chemical Engineering

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Principal Scientist

Country of Origin: India

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: North Carolina

Approval Notice Date: August 21^st, 2026

Processing Time: 14 days (Premium Processing Requested)

Case Summary:

Chemical engineering research can address very different practical challenges, from understanding biological processes that affect human health to developing materials with lower environmental impacts. This breadth characterized the work of a chemical engineering expert whose I-140 petition sought classification as an EB-1B Outstanding Researcher. The client holds a Ph.D. in chemical and biomolecular engineering and currently works as a Principal Scientist in research and development.

Demonstrating Original Contributions Across Research Areas

The client's research record combined work in biological systems with materials engineering. Earlier research developed experimental approaches for understanding how physiological systems respond to dietary factors, providing insights relevant to metabolic and cardiovascular health. More recent work has focused on engineering recyclable, high-performance materials for food packaging, with the goal of reducing environmental impacts while maintaining product protection and manufacturing performance.

To demonstrate the significance of these contributions, North America Immigration Law Group (Chen Immigration Law Associates) emphasized how other researchers and industry professionals had relied on the client's work. Independent researchers had used the client's earlier findings to advance their understanding of biological and metabolic processes, while the client's materials expertise contributed to patented and commercially implemented packaging technologies. The client's research had also received support from major funding sources, including the National Science Foundation, American Heart Association, and National Institutes of Health, further contextualizing the scientific importance of portions of the client's work.

Building the Record of International Recognition

The client's scholarly and professional record provided additional evidence for the EB-1B petition. The client had produced 8 peer-reviewed journal articles, 6 conference abstracts, and 2 granted patents, with most of the publications and conference abstracts completed in a leading authorship role. The client's work had accumulated 80 citations, including citations from researchers in multiple countries. The client had also completed at least 10 peer reviews for scholarly journals and conferences. We presented these metrics not as standalone proof of outstanding research, but alongside evidence showing international scholarly reliance, original contributions, practical implementation, and recognition by research venues that entrusted the client with evaluating the work of peers.

Expert Support for the Client's Standing in Chemical Engineering

The petition included 4 recommendation letters from experts familiar with the client's contributions, including an independent advisory opinion from an expert who knew the client's work through the scholarly record rather than a prior professional relationship. These letters helped explain why the client's research mattered to the field and corroborated the independent evidence of research influence, technical innovation, and continued contributions in chemical engineering.

EB-1B Approval in Just 14 Days

The case was filed with premium processing requested from the outset, and the I-140 EB-1B petition was approved in just 14 days. By bringing together evidence of original research contributions, scholarly authorship, citations from researchers internationally, peer-review activity, patents and practical implementation, funding support, expert testimony, and the client's permanent research position, we demonstrated a record consistent with international recognition as an outstanding researcher in chemical engineering. We congratulate the client on this swift EB-1B approval and wish them continued success in advancing research with applications in human health and sustainable materials.

"Thank you so much for the wonderful news and for your excellent work throughout this process! I am truly grateful for your team's support and professionalism.”

On August 18^th, 2026, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Graduate Teaching Assistant in the Field of Electrical Engineering (Approval Notice).

General Field: Electrical Engineering

Position at the Time of Case Filing: Graduate Teaching Assistant

Country of Origin: Bangladesh

State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Colorado

Approval Notice Date: August 18^th, 2026

Processing Time: 4 months, 9 days (Premium Processing Upgrade Requested)

Case Summary:

As advanced computing continues to support artificial intelligence, data-intensive applications, and critical digital infrastructure, improving computing efficiency while strengthening hardware and system security has become an increasingly important research priority. Our client, an expert in electrical engineering researcher with an M.S. in electrical & electronic engineering, sought an I-140 EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) to continue advancing research in this area. At the time of the petition, the client was conducting research at a U.S. university while also serving as a Graduate Teaching Assistant.

The client's proposed endeavor centers on developing intelligent hardware and computing techniques designed to improve processing efficiency while making advanced systems more resistant to security threats. Rather than emphasizing the highly specialized architecture involved, the petition explained the practical implications of this work: reducing delays and energy demands, improving computing performance, and strengthening the reliability and security of systems used for AI, data centers, and other advanced applications. We connected these objectives to broader U.S. interests in cybersecurity, advanced computing, technological leadership, national security, and economic competitiveness.

The client's research record further helped demonstrate the ability to continue advancing this endeavor. The client had published 2 peer-reviewed journal articles, including 1 first-authored article, and 2 first-authored peer-reviewed conference articles. These publications had accumulated 25 citations, while the client had also completed at least 2 peer reviews for an established conference in the field.

Importantly, we did not rely on these numbers as stand-alone indicators of NIW eligibility. Instead, we contextualized them to show how the client's expertise had been recognized and how the research had influenced subsequent work. One of the client's articles ranked among the top 20% most-cited engineering papers from its publication year. We also documented examples of independent researchers drawing upon the client's work when studying hardware-based security and computing optimization. These examples helped demonstrate that the client's findings were not merely published, but had become useful reference points for further research in the field.

The peer-review record provided another complementary indicator of professional standing. Being asked to evaluate research submitted by other specialists supported the argument that the client possessed relevant technical expertise recognized within the research community. Considered together with the client's advanced education, scholarly output, citation evidence, independent use of the research, and ongoing work, this evidence helped establish that the client was well positioned to continue contributing to electrical engineering.

The client's I-140 NIW petition was ultimately approved. The case illustrates how a petition can move beyond numerical credentials by connecting a researcher's established record to the actual influence of the work and explaining how continued research may contribute to secure, efficient, and resilient computing systems of broader importance to the United States.