Pakistani professionals can use the EB-2 NIW, because it has no treaty or country list. You file Form I-140 for yourself, and you must qualify for EB-2 and meet the three NIW prongs (USCIS, reviewed Jan 2025).
The part that depends on your country is the waiting time, so check it separately before you plan.
Can Pakistani citizens use the NIW?
Yes. Any nationality can self-petition. Compare this with the E-2 visa, which needs a treaty country, where Pakistan is on the State Department list. See the E-2 visa for Pakistani citizens if you also own a business.
What do you need to qualify?
- EB-2 base: an advanced degree or its equivalent, or exceptional ability.
- Endeavor: one specific piece of work with national importance.
- Proof of position: documents that show you can advance it.
- Balance: a reason why waiving the job offer benefits the United States.
What about waiting time?
After USCIS approves the petition, your place in line depends on the monthly Visa Bulletin from the State Department, and it can differ by country of chargeability. Check the current bulletin before you plan dates, because it changes every month.
What should you prepare?
Step 1: Check your degree and experience against the EB-2 base.
Step 2: Write one clear endeavor. See how to write it.
Step 3: Gather evidence for each prong. See prong 1 and prong 2.
Step 4: Collect specific letters.
What other options exist?
If the NIW does not fit, compare other routes with the U.S. route finder. If you are also weighing Canada, see immigrating to Canada from Pakistan and check your score on the Express Entry CRS calculator.
Read the plain guide to the NIW for the full overview.
Frequently asked questions
Can Pakistani citizens apply for the EB-2 NIW?
Yes. The NIW has no country list, and you can file Form I-140 for yourself (USCIS, reviewed Jan 2025).
Do I need a job offer?
No. The NIW waives the job offer and labor certification (USCIS).
Does my country affect the waiting time?
It can. Visa availability follows the monthly State Department Visa Bulletin, so check the current one before you plan.
Do I need an advanced degree?
You need an advanced degree or its equivalent, or exceptional ability (USCIS).
Can I also use the E-2?
Pakistan is on the E-2 treaty list, so a business owner may consider it. It is temporary, while the NIW leads to a green card.
Where to go from here
To talk through your own case, Book a Strategy Consultation, or start with the U.S. route finder.
Last updated: 15 October 2026.
Amir Ismail leads Amir Ismail & Associates, which has guided clients since 1991 and works with independent U.S. immigration attorneys. AIA is not a law firm. Legal advice and filings are handled by the attorney.
