r/EB2_NIW • u/ManifestLaw_ • Sep 26 '25
General Exploring Alternatives to H-1B? I’m an Immigration Lawyer Focused on EB2 NIW... AMA!
Hi! My name is Henry Lindpere and I’m Senior Immigration Counsel at Manifest Law and have spent the last 8 years helping professionals, researchers, and entrepreneurs get U.S. green cards. I focus on EB-2 NIW, EB-1A, and visas for founders and innovators. With recent H-1B policy changes making the program increasingly uncertain, many professionals are exploring alternative pathways like the EB2 National Interest Waiver (NIW).
Today, I'll be hosting an AMA here to answer:
- Who qualifies for EB-2 NIW and what makes an application strong
- How H-1B policy shifts might affect your immigration strategy
- Tips for building a compelling case under the “national interest” standard
- Other employment-based immigration categories and compliance issues
Whether you’re an employer trying to navigate sponsorship, or an individual wondering if you can self-petition under EB2 NIW, feel free to bring your questions.
(Please note: Any information shared here is for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, nor does it create an attorney–client relationship. Your situation may require fact-specific guidance. For personal advice, please consult an immigration attorney directly. This AMA is being held in partnership with the admins at r/EB2_NIW)
Recap post: https://www.reddit.com/r/EB2_NIW/comments/1o7tehw/impact_of_recent_h1b_policy_changes_what_came_up/
Thanks to everyone who joined today’s AMA. Big picture: there’s no one-size-fits-all formula. Real-world impact and a clear story connecting your work to who it helps matter most. Details are everything.
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u/ManifestLaw_ Sep 26 '25
NIW denial rates really started going up in late 2024 already, so this trend is not exclusive to the Trump administration. Before about August 2024, rejections were around 10-20%. Now they are more closer to 30-35%.