When applying for the EB2‑NIW (National Interest Waiver), a crucial USCIS requirement is showing that your proposed work benefits the entire United States, not just one employer, state, or industry. But “national in scope” doesn’t mean you have to work for the federal government or operate in all 50 states—it’s about the impact, reach, and relevance of your work across the U.S.
What “National in Scope” Really Means
Per the USCIS’s Matter of Dhanasar decision, the first prong requires your endeavor to have substantial merit and national importance—that is, value to the U.S. as a whole. The geographic reach can be narrow, but the effect must be broad. For example, improving bridge safety in one region may still serve the national interest if the enhancement affects the broader U.S. transportation network eb2niw.com.
How to Demonstrate National-Level Impact
1. Focus on national U.S. priorities
Align your work with issues affecting the country broadly—like public health, clean energy, cybersecurity, or infrastructure. Show how your efforts tackle these.
2. Quantify your impact
Use metrics—such as potential cost savings, cybersecurity resiliency, projected job creation, or other validated benefits—to show nationwide relevance. Include citations, reports, or government data.
3. Tie into broader needs or replication potential
Highlight how your work addresses recognized U.S. priorities or can be scaled/adopted nationally. Emphasize its originality or pioneering value.
4. Cite precedent
AAO rulings confirm that focused but nationally significant endeavors—like bridge engineering or atmospheric research—can qualify, if they align with national systems or solve widespread issues.
Tips for Crafting Your Proposed Endeavor Statement
Be precise: Describe specific goals, methods, and timelines—avoid broad generalities.
Use measurable evidence: Include data, peer-reviewed research, patents, or reports demonstrating U.S.-wide relevance.
Highlight scalability: Emphasize how your work supports national or global initiatives, or can be replicated in other parts of the country.
Emphasize your positioning: Explain why you’re uniquely capable to carry out this endeavor—draw on your education, past achievements, or expert endorsements eb2niwexperts.com+2immigrationofficesolutions.com+2en.wikipedia.org+2.
Final Thoughts
“National in scope” = work with U.S.-wide benefits, not just local or employer-specific gains.
Your proposed endeavor must demonstrate:
Substantial merit & national importance,
That you are well-positioned to execute it, and
That waiving the job offer/labor certification requirement benefits the U.S.
Crafting a clear, data-backed, and impactful proposed endeavor statement is crucial to a strong EB2-NIW petition. Thoughtfully connect your work to national priorities to strengthen your case—this could be the key to unlocking your U.S. green card.
Need personalized help crafting a compelling national-scope endeavor statement? Book a Consultation today to begin crafting a winning EB2‑NIW strategy!
