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Write a Cover Letter for NIW

The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) visa offers a unique opportunity for individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities to immigrate to the U.S. without the requirement of a job offer. A critical part of your EB-2 NIW application is the cover letter, which serves as the first impression and summarization of your petition for the immigration officer. This document not only outlines your qualifications but also plays a key role in establishing proof for your claims through supporting evidence. This guide will walk you through the importance of this document, how to structure it effectively, and how to present compelling evidence in the cover letter to enhance your chances of approval.

More information about evidences in an EB-2 NIW Petition

More informtion of how to write proves in a NIW petition

Why is the Cover Letter Important?​

The cover letter is the primary introduction of your case to the immigration officer. Given that the officer may not be an expert in your field, the letter should clearly present your qualifications, the national importance of your proposed endeavor, and why you qualify for a waiver of the job offer and labor certification requirements. It serves to:

  1. Highlight your eligibility for the EB-2 NIW category.
  2. Provide a narrative of how your endeavor aligns with U.S. national interests.
  3. Summarize supporting evidence included in your petition.

Structure and Length​

While there is no strict template for an EB-2 NIW cover letter, it should be well-organized, concise, and tailored to your specific situation. The length can vary significantly—ranging from 10 to 40 pages—depending on the complexity of your case and the documentation provided. The key is to ensure clarity and relevance while maintaining a professional tone.

Key Sections to Include​

1. Introduction​

Begin by introducing yourself and stating the purpose of the letter: your application for the EB-2 NIW visa. Mention your field, whether you qualify based on an advanced degree or exceptional ability, and briefly highlight the importance of your work to the U.S.

2. Eligibility and Qualifications​

Explain why you qualify for the EB-2 NIW. If you hold an advanced degree, provide details such as your academic credentials and their relevance to your field of work. If your application is based on exceptional ability, outline your achievements and professional experience, showing how they exceed what is typically expected in your field. Be sure to tie this explanation to your broader national interest argument.

Verify your Eb-2 NIW eligibility here

3. The Proposed Endeavor​

This section is crucial, as many EB-2 NIW denials occur due to a lack of clarity about the petitioner's endeavor. Here, you must articulate the specific work or project you are pursuing in the U.S. Be precise and avoid vague descriptions of your field. A common mistake is focusing on the importance of the industry rather than your specific role in it. You may choose to elaborate on this in a separate exhibit, such as a business plan or professional strategy, but we recommend to include a concise resume on the cover letter.

More information about writing a proposed endeavour

More information about Professional Plan and Business Plan

4. Substantial Merit and National Importance​

One of the three main prongs of the Matter of Dhanasar framework is demonstrating that your endeavor has substantial merit and national importance. This section should highlight how your work benefits U.S. society, economy, or another area of national interest. Whether your contribution lies in scientific research, technology, education, or economic development, the connection to U.S. national importance must be clear and well-supported.

Demonstrate Substantial Merit and National Importance in NIW

5. Well-Positioned to Advance the Proposed Endeavor​

Here, you must show that you are not only qualified but also positioned to successfully advance your proposed endeavor. Support this claim with evidence such as your educational background, past achievements, professional network, and current projects. If applicable, reference letters of recommendation or endorsements from key figures or organizations in your field.

Demonstrate that You Are Well-Positioned to Advance the Proposed Endeavor in NIW Petition

6. Waiving the Job Offer and Labor Certification​

The final prong of the Dhanasar test requires demonstrating that it is beneficial to the U.S. to waive the job offer and labor certification requirements. Discuss why your proposed work, which may be self-employed or entrepreneurial in nature, could not be achieved under the labor certification process. Emphasize how your unique contributions outweigh the need for U.S. worker protections.

Demonstrate that waiving the job offer and labor certification requirement would be in the national interest of the United States

7. Supporting Documents​

Summarize the supporting documentation included in your petition. These may include recommendation letters, academic degrees, publications, patents, awards, and evidence of your project’s significance. Briefly describe how each document supports your eligibility for the visa and the national interest waiver.

8. Conclusion​

Close with a strong statement reiterating why you are an excellent candidate for the EB-2 NIW. Express your appreciation for the officer’s time and consideration, and encourage them to approve your petition based on the evidence and arguments presented.

Writing Tips​

  • Use Simple Language: Remember, the officer reviewing your petition may not be an expert in your field. Avoid excessive jargon and technical details, instead opting for straightforward, accessible language that clearly conveys your qualifications and contributions.
  • Be Concise but Detailed: Even though your cover letter might be lengthy, every sentence should serve a purpose. Stick to relevant facts and focus on the aspects of your case that most strongly demonstrate your eligibility.
  • Highlight Expert Recommendations: If you have recommendation letters from influential professionals in your field, make sure to mention them, as they can significantly strengthen your case.

Conclusion​

The cover letter is one of the most critical components of your EB-2 NIW petition. It sets the tone for your entire case, giving the immigration officer a roadmap to understand your qualifications and how they serve the national interest. By carefully organizing your arguments, presenting clear evidence, and linking your work to U.S. benefits, you significantly improve your chances of a successful application.

When preparing your EB-2 NIW cover letter, be thorough, articulate, and persuasive, remembering that clarity is key in persuading the immigration officer to approve your petition.