The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is a unique pathway under the EB-2 employment-based immigration category that allows individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities to self-petition for a green card without the need for a specific job offer or labor certification. This category is particularly valuable for professionals in fields such as science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM), medicine, education, and business who can demonstrate that their work benefits the United States on a national level.
Given the complexity and high standard of proof involved in NIW petitions, working with an experienced and reputable NIW immigration attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. In this article, we highlight seven of the best NIW attorneys based on reputation, success rate, client reviews, and specialization in EB-2 NIW cases.
1. Chen Immigration Law Associates (North America Immigration Law Group)
Overview
Chen Immigration Law Associates, also known as North America Immigration Law Group (NAILG), is one of the most prominent law firms specializing in NIW and EB-1 petitions. The firm has built a strong reputation for its focus on research-oriented professionals, including scientists, researchers, engineers, and medical professionals.
Why They’re Among the Best
NAILG boasts a high approval rate and has thousands of successful NIW cases to its credit. They offer a free evaluation service and have an online database of approved case summaries that help potential clients assess their chances. Their experience across a wide range of fields and their dedication to personalized case strategy set them apart from others.
Notable Strengths
- Extensive success record in NIW petitions
- Detailed and personalized petition letters
- Excellent client support and case tracking
- Transparent pricing and timeline estimation
2. Law Offices of David H. Nachman, P.C.
Overview
With offices in New Jersey and New York, the Law Offices of David H. Nachman, P.C. is a respected immigration law firm with over 25 years of experience. Their attorneys are known for providing professional legal services in complex employment-based immigration cases, including EB-2 NIW petitions.
Why They’re Among the Best
David Nachman and his team have in-depth knowledge of the NIW process and work closely with clients to develop a compelling case narrative. Their personalized approach and extensive experience make them a trusted option for professionals seeking NIW approvals.
Notable Strengths
- Proven success in complicated NIW cases
- Strong legal research and writing capabilities
- Responsive client communication
3. Ashoori Law
Overview
Ashoori Law is a modern immigration law firm based in Los Angeles, California. Founded by Michael Ashoori, the firm has quickly built a strong online presence and a loyal client base, particularly among professionals pursuing self-petition green cards like the EB-2 NIW and EB-1A.
Why They’re Among the Best
Ashoori Law emphasizes transparency and accessibility, offering free consultations and flat-fee pricing. They have a reputation for excellent customer service and a user-friendly digital platform that allows clients to track their case progress.
Notable Strengths
- Tech-enabled case management system
- Clear communication and educational resources
- Strong social proof through client testimonials
4. Chudnovsky Law
Overview
Based in California, Chudnovsky Law is a multilingual law firm specializing in immigration and business law. The firm has successfully represented clients from over 50 countries in EB-2 NIW and other employment-based green card categories.
Why They’re Among the Best
The firm’s attorneys include former government prosecutors and immigration judges, which gives them a unique edge in understanding the nuances of U.S. immigration law. They offer comprehensive case preparation and litigation support if needed.
Notable Strengths
- Diverse legal team with a strong litigation background
- Multilingual services
- Customized strategy for each client
5. JQK Law Firm
Overview
Founded by attorney John Q. Khosravi, JQK Law Firm focuses heavily on marriage and family-based immigration, but they have built a growing presence in the employment-based immigration space, especially with NIW cases for entrepreneurs and researchers.
Why They’re Among the Best
John Khosravi’s educational background in international business and his podcast on immigration law make him a popular choice for clients who value informed, strategic approaches. His boutique practice style allows for more personalized service.
Notable Strengths
- Hands-on attorney involvement in each case
- Expertise in international entrepreneurship and NIW
- Media presence and legal education initiatives
6. Sundar Narasimhan (GreenCardForPhD.com)
Overview
Sundar Narasimhan is a unique presence in the immigration legal landscape. While not a traditional law firm, GreenCardForPhD.com provides consultation and self-help tools specifically for PhD holders pursuing NIW and EB-1A petitions.
Why They’re Among the Best
This platform is particularly useful for individuals with technical or academic backgrounds who want to self-petition or better understand the process before hiring a lawyer. Sundar himself holds a PhD and has been through the NIW process.
Notable Strengths
- Specialized guidance for PhD holders
- Detailed DIY resources and templates
- Affordable consultation options
7. Shilpa Malik – Immigration Law Group
Overview
Attorney Shilpa Malik, based in Miami, Florida, leads a team with a strong focus on employment-based immigration, including NIW and EB-1 categories. Her firm offers multilingual support and representation for clients across the U.S. and globally.
Why They’re Among the Best
Malik’s firm is known for handling high-volume cases without compromising quality. They guide clients through each step of the NIW petition process and have a high rate of success among international professionals in the tech and health sectors.
Notable Strengths
- Experience with STEM and healthcare professionals
- Multilingual team support
- High approval rate and positive client feedback
How to Choose the Right NIW Attorney for Your Case
Selecting the best NIW attorney for your individual situation involves more than just reviewing success rates. Here are some tips to guide your decision:
- Evaluate their experience in your field: Attorneys who understand the technical or scientific nature of your work can better frame your case.
- Request a case evaluation: Most top firms offer free evaluations to assess your eligibility.
- Check client testimonials: Online reviews and case studies can provide insight into how the firm operates.
- Understand their fee structure: Ensure there are no hidden fees and that the pricing aligns with your budget.
Conclusion
The NIW process is an excellent route for self-petitioning U.S. permanent residence, especially for highly skilled professionals who can demonstrate their work is of national interest. However, the process is rigorous, and a well-prepared petition is essential. Whether you’re an academic researcher, healthcare provider, engineer, or entrepreneur, hiring the right NIW attorney can make the difference between approval and denial.
The seven attorneys and firms listed in this article are among the most trusted in the NIW field. Their experience, client dedication, and successful outcomes make them strong choices for anyone navigating the complex landscape of U.S. immigration.
Before making a final decision, consult with more than one firm, ask questions, and choose the attorney who best understands your background and goals. With the right legal partner, your dream of obtaining a U.S. green card through the National Interest Waiver can become a reality.
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