A university professor or researcher holding an advanced degree or with exceptional ability in science or art can self petition for an EB-2 green card category and avoid the PERM process if he or she works in an area considered of national interest.

A - Requirements

1. University professor or researcher must prove that he or she holds an advanced degree or has exceptional ability in science or art.
   
   
2. His or her area of work must be in the following areas considered of national interest or an interested government agency has requested the work of the university professor or researcher.
   
   Areas of national interest:
• Improving the US economy;
• Improving wages and working conditions for US workers;
• Improving education and programs for US children and under qualified workers;
• Improving healthcare;
• Providing more affordable housing; or
• Improving the US environment and making more productive use of natural resources.

B - Remarks

1. No job offer or PERM is required
2. Normally there is an immediate green card available for this category depending on the country of origin.  For green card availability please check the Visa Bulletin published by the Department of State at: http://travel.state.gov/visa/frvi/bulletin/bulletin_1360.html
3. This category requires a high standard of proof as the applicant must prove to be above his or her peers.