Case Summary:     

We are pleased to share the success story of an EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval. This approval was granted to a psychiatrist from Iran. The client’s work is focused on advancing cognitive disorder detection and early intervention through the development of bioinformatics tools. At the time of filing, the client was employed in the United States, continuing important research in the field of psychiatry, specifically in cognitive dysfunction and neurodegenerative diseases.

Research with Substantial Merit and National Importance

The client’s proposed endeavor centers on developing a streamlined system for prompt cognitive patient screening and immediate treatment initiation. This system aims to improve early detection of cognitive disorders, minimize complications, and enhance overall patient outcomes, particularly in neurodegenerative conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Her research directly addresses the growing national health concerns related to cognitive impairments, offering a potential solution to reduce healthcare costs and improve the quality of life for aging populations.

Well Positioned to Advance the Proposed Endeavor

The client holds an M.D. and has authored 9 peer-reviewed journal articles, including 2 first-authored papers. Her research has been cited 149 times, demonstrating its influence and recognition within the psychiatric and medical communities. Her work has been published in high-impact journals, such as Globalization and Health, with citations in leading research on healthcare access delays, corneal surgery outcomes, and mental health treatments.

In addition to her publications, the client has successfully secured funding for her work from major academic and medical institutions, further solidifying her credibility and ability to continue advancing her research in cognitive disorder detection and treatment.

Expert Testimonial

The client’s research has garnered recognition from experts in the field, including a respected independent recommender who noted the broader impact of her work.

The recommender stated:

“[Client]’s work provides valuable insights for psychiatrists, improving the quality of life for individuals with chronic schizophrenia and paving the way for future research and clinical applications in psychiatric care.”

This endorsement reinforces the client’s standing as a leader in her field and highlights the long-term impact of her research on both clinical practice and future psychiatric advancements.

NIW Approval and Outlook

The I-140 NIW petition was filed on January 13, 2025. USCIS issued a Request for Evidence (RFE) on March 13, 2025, and the petition was approved on August 5, 2025. The RFE response included detailed documentation of the client’s research impact, scholarly output, and national importance, leading to successful approval.

With NAILG’s guidance, the client secured NIW approval and is now positioned to continue her vital research in the U.S. Her work on cognitive disorder detection and early intervention promises to transform patient care, reduce healthcare costs, and improve quality of life for affected individuals.