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USCIS Has Spoken: The Entrepreneur’s Cheat Sheet to EB2/NIW Approval - Part 2

USCIS Has Spoken: The Entrepreneur’s Cheat Sheet to EB2/NIW Approval - Part 2

The EB2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) offers a unique pathway for entrepreneurs to build a business in the U.S. and contribute to the national economy. With the recent updates to the USCIS policy manual, entrepreneurs have more clarity on how to align their petitions with government expectations. However, success depends on presenting a comprehensive, well-documented case.

As part of our mission to stay current with immigration trends for the benefit of our clients, we analyzed the updated USCIS policy manual to highlight the key components required for a successful EB2/NIW business plan. This blog series explores each of these elements in detail to help entrepreneurs strengthen their petitions. In this installment, we focus on relevant qualifications and how they play a pivotal role in showcasing the petitioner’s ability to advance their endeavor.

Why Relevant Qualifications Matter

Your qualifications are the foundation of your petition, demonstrating to USCIS that you possess the expertise, skills, and experience necessary to ensure the success of your business. A strong emphasis on relevant qualifications highlights your ability to execute your vision and solidifies your credibility as an entrepreneur.

1. Education and Certifications

Degrees, certifications, and licenses related to your field of endeavor provide concrete evidence of your expertise. For example, an entrepreneur launching a biotech company may hold advanced degrees in biology or chemistry, while someone establishing a fintech startup might showcase certifications in financial analysis or programming.

2. Proven Leadership Experience

A track record of successfully leading start-ups or growing businesses is a powerful indicator of your ability to advance your proposed endeavor. Highlighting prior achievements, such as scaling a company, launching innovative products, or leading high-performing teams, strengthens your case and builds confidence in your qualifications.

3. Industry-Specific Skills

USCIS expects evidence of technical skills or knowledge directly related to your business. Whether it’s proprietary research, patented technology, or niche market expertise, your business plan should connect your skills to the success of your venture.

Are You Ready For It?

Your qualifications are a key element of your EB2/NIW petition, but presenting them effectively requires a strategic approach. We offer a range of services to help entrepreneurs make their case, including custom immigration business plans, thorough recommendation letters, expert CV preparation, and market and feasibility analyses. With over 15 years of experience in business immigration and 25+ years as successful entrepreneurs, we bring a unique perspective to building petitions that meet USCIS standards and lay the ground for future visa renewals.

Contact us today to create a strong, credible business plan that highlights your qualifications and sets your business up for success. And stay tuned for the next post in our series, where we’ll explore another critical component of the EB2/NIW business plan.

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The information provided in this blog is intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, it should not be considered legal advice. Immigration laws and regulations are subject to change, and individual circumstances can vary widely. For personalized guidance and legal advice regarding your specific immigration situation, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration attorney who can provide you with tailored assistance and ensure compliance with current laws and regulations.


Visa Business Plans is led by Marco Scanu, a certified coach from the University of Miami with a globally-based practice coaching Fortune 1000 company executives, entrepreneurs, as well as professionals in four different continents. Mr. Scanu advises clients on turnaround strategies and crisis management.

Mr. Scanu received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Cum Laude) from the University of Florida and an MBA in Management from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. Mr. Scanu was also a Visiting Scholar at Michigan State University under the prestigious H. Humphrey Fellowship (Fulbright program) with a focus on Entrepreneurship, Venture Capital, and high-growth enterprises.

At present, Mr. Scanu is the managing partner and CEO at Visa Business Plans, a Miami-based boutique consulting firm providing attorneys and investors with business planning services in the areas of U.S. and Canadian immigration, SBA loans, and others.


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