The second-prefered employment category (EB-2) allows individuals of exceptional ability and individuals who are members of the professions holding advanced degrees to get a Green Card (permanent residence).

For EB-2s a job offer and a labor certification is generally required. This requirement can be waived if the applicant demonstrates that granting the EB-2 petition would be in the national interest of the United States.

One reason USCIS may grant the national interest waiver is because a physician agrees to work for a period of time in a designated underserved area.