What Is ‘National Importance’ Under Dhanasar in 2025?

What Is ‘National Importance’ Under Dhanasar in 2025?

When it comes to employment-based immigration, the EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) remains a powerful pathway for professionals seeking permanent residence in the United States, without needing employer sponsorship or a labor certification. One of the most debated and pivotal elements of the EB-2 NIW petition is whether the applicant’s proposed endeavor holds “national importance.”

But what does “national importance” really mean in 2025?
Let’s break it down.

The Legal Framework: Matter of Dhanasar
In 2016, the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) issued a precedent decision, Matter of Dhanasar, which reshaped the standards for EB-2 NIW adjudications. Under Dhanasar, a petitioner must demonstrate three things:

  1. The proposed endeavor has substantial merit and national importance;
  2. The applicant is well positioned to advance the endeavor;
  3. On balance, it would benefit the United States to waive the job offer and labor certification requirements.

While each prong is critical, the first, national importance, often raises the most questions and undergoes the most scrutiny, especially in today's evolving immigration climate.

What Does “National Importance” Mean?
In essence, USCIS must determine whether the potential impact of the applicant’s proposed work goes beyond a local or regional benefit and touches on broader national interests.

In 2025, “national importance” typically involves:

  • Impact across geographic areas (not just in one state or community);
  • Influence on critical sectors, such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, cybersecurity, green energy, or the U.S. economy;
  • Capacity to serve U.S. policy priorities, including public health, innovation, job creation, or underserved populations.

Examples of Endeavors That May Meet the Standard in 2025

  • A healthcare professional improving telemedicine access in rural areas, addressing national disparities in healthcare delivery;
  • A STEM researcher developing AI applications for transportation safety or climate change mitigation;
  • A bilingual educator launching a scalable curriculum that addresses English language acquisition in immigrant communities across multiple states;
  • A clean tech entrepreneur designing modular, sustainable housing for disaster relief zones.

In all these examples, the proposed endeavor demonstrates broader implications beyond the applicant’s personal benefit or a single employer’s interest. The impact must be diffuse, scalable, and aligned with national goals.

What Does Not Typically Qualify as “National Importance”?
While USCIS evaluates each case individually, the following are common reasons for rejection under this prong:

  • Endeavors that are highly localized in scope without clear evidence of national implications;
  • Projects that benefit only a specific employer or business, without broader sector-wide influence;
  • Professions like piloting or coaching, when presented as personal career goals rather than integrated into a systemic or educational initiative with broader reach.

How to Prove National Importance
In 2025, petitioners must present strong evidence, such as:

  • Data showing national demand or policy alignment;
  • Media coverage or government reports supporting the significance of the issue;
  • Expert letters explaining how the endeavor contributes to national objectives;
  • Scalable plans or partnerships that go beyond a regional footprint.

With USCIS adopting a more stringent posture under the current administration, NIW cases must be more robust than ever. Demonstrating “national importance” under Dhanasar isn’t just about having an impressive background—it’s about clearly articulating the ripple effects of your proposed work on American society at large.

If you’re considering an EB-2 NIW petition, it’s crucial to develop a compelling narrative backed by solid evidence. Our team at VisaLex and American Immigration Associates can help you craft a petition that meets today’s high standards.

Need Help?
Contact us today to schedule a strategy session and explore whether your proposed endeavor qualifies under the national interest waiver criteria in 2025.