How to get EB2 Visa as Product Manager

Josue Saenz Castillo
5 min readSep 2, 2023

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“Literally almost 99% Tech people who raised outside US wants to have the chance to apply on US Based Company…”

There is almost no information about how people who are involved in Technology can apply for the EB-2 NIW Visa.

Today I will talk about how a Product Manager can get this type of visa and shine in the Tech environment in the United States, plus enjoying the privileges of the green card.

So let’s start with basic concepts; According to the US Embassy, the EB-2 NIW Visa means that this Visa option can be granted if:

“If you are a member of the professions holding an advanced degree or its equivalent, or a person who has exceptional ability”

It’s important to memtioned that you are required to meet at least 3 out of the 10 criteria options that the USCIS requires. Usually the minimal things to consider are:

  • Official academic record showing that you have a degree, diploma, certificate, or similar award from a college, university, school, or other institution of learning relating to your area of exceptional ability
  • Letters from current or former employers documenting at least 10 years of full-time experience in your occupation
  • A license to practice your profession or certification for your profession or occupation
  • Evidence that you have commanded a salary or other remuneration for services that demonstrates your exceptional ability
  • Membership in a professional association(s)
  • Recognition for your achievements and significant contributions to your industry or field by your peers, government entities, professional or business organizations
  • Other comparable evidence of eligibility is also acceptable.

So the problem is that unless you pay for a Visa Consultants, it is so hard to identify if you at certain level of acceptance based on the criteria or if you need to polish some specific areas.

The “Million Dollar Question”: How does a Product Manager can apply to the EB-2 visa?

Let me breakdown some real scenarios of what you need to prove to the USCIS (Remember that you only need to meet 3 out the 10 criteria)

1.Advanced Degree or Exceptional Ability: To qualify for an EB-2 NIW visa, you must have either an advanced degree or exceptional ability in your field.

Example 1: John holds a Master’s degree in Computer Science and has over seven years of experience in product management, demonstrating advanced expertise in the field.

Example 2: Emily, a Product Manager, holds a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) and has been consistently recognized for her exceptional ability in product development.

2. Significant Contributions: Provide evidence of significant contributions to your field. This can include research, publications, patents, or innovative product development.

Example 1: Sarah has published several articles on product management methodologies and received a patent for a novel product management software tool.

Example 2: Mark has developed a cutting-edge project management software widely used by tech companies, resulting in improved productivity and cost savings. His contributions are evident through user testimonials and increased company revenues.

3. Impact on the Industry: Show how your work has positively impacted the product management industry or related fields.

Example 1: Daniel’s innovative product development strategies led to a 30% increase in market share for his company, revolutionizing how competitors approach product management.

Example 2: Lisa’s innovative product launch strategies led to a paradigm shift in how e-commerce businesses approach customer engagement, ultimately increasing customer satisfaction and retention rates across the industry.

4. Letters of Recommendation: Obtain letters of recommendation from experts in your field. These letters should attest to your contributions and the national interest aspect.

Example 1: Jane received strong letters of recommendation from prominent product managers and industry leaders who praised her groundbreaking work.

Example 2: Robert received glowing letters of recommendation from industry veterans, including the CEO of a prominent tech firm, commending his transformative work in product management.

5. Leadership Roles: Demonstrate that you have taken on leadership roles in your field.

Example 1: Michael served as the head of the product management department at a leading tech company, where he managed a team of 20 product managers and drove product development initiatives.

Example 2: Julia has held leadership roles in multiple organizations, overseeing product development teams and steering them to create award-winning products.

6. Publications: If applicable, showcase any publications or articles you have authored in respected journals, magazines, or online platforms.

Example 1: Maria’s articles on agile product management have been published in industry-leading journals, helping shape best practices in the field.

Example 2: Andrew has authored influential articles on product management methodologies that have been published in reputable industry journals and widely cited by peers.

7. Innovative Product Development: Highlight innovative products or projects you have been involved in that have had a positive impact.

Example 1: Alex led the development of a groundbreaking healthcare app that improved patient-doctor communication, leading to better health outcomes.

Example 2: Michael led the development of a healthcare wearable device that revolutionized remote patient monitoring, making healthcare more accessible and affordable.

8. Evidence of National Impact: Provide evidence that your work has had a national impact in the U.S.

Example 1: David’s development of a cybersecurity product significantly enhanced the nation’s cybersecurity infrastructure, protecting critical systems from cyber threats.

Example 2: Susan’s work in developing secure financial transaction platforms has had a profound impact on national cybersecurity efforts, safeguarding critical financial systems from cyber threats.

9. Endorsements: Seek endorsements or support from organizations or institutions that recognize your contributions to the national interest.

Example 1: Emily’s work in sustainable product design received endorsements from environmental organizations for its contribution to national sustainability goals.

Example 2: John’s contributions to environmentally sustainable product design garnered endorsements from environmental advocacy groups, recognizing his role in advancing national sustainability goals.

10. Career Achievements: Document your career achievements, such as promotions, awards, or recognition for your contributions.

Example 1: Robert received the “Product Manager of the Year” award from a prestigious industry association for his outstanding career achievements.

Example 2: Sarah, over her career, received multiple promotions, awards, and accolades, including the “Product Manager of the Year” award, demonstrating her exceptional career achievements.

I know that most of them looks quite impossible, but there are a lot of gaps of interpretation, so the KEY is how you shared your expertise, skills and contribution on each Product you have been developed.

This are just some tips I want you to use if you are looking that BIG OPPORTUNITY.

Let me know if you have any questions :)

Josue Saenz — Sr Product Manager

Keywords:

How to get EB2 Visa as Product Manager, Green Card as Product Manager, How to get a job on USA as Product Manager, EB2 Visa, EB-2 Visa NIW, EB2 Visa application.

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