Success Stories: A Rwandan Master’s Student in Veterinary Epidemiology Receives EB2-NIW Approval without an RFE [Request for Evidence]
Client’s Testimonial:
“Thank you for the wonderful news and your continued guidance. It has truly been a pleasure working with you—your prompt responses and thorough information have been invaluable.”
On May 8th, 2025, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Master’s Student in the Field of Veterinary Epidemiology (Approval Notice).
General Field: Veterinary Epidemiology
Position at the Time of Case Filing: Master’s Student
Country of Origin: Rwanda
State of Residence at the Time of Filing: Illinois
Approval Notice Date: May 8th, 2025
Processing Time: 1 year, 4 months, and 16 days
Case Summary:
When our firm was approached for an NIW petition by a Master’s student from Rwanda in the field of veterinary epidemiology, it was immediately clear that we would work with a client whose profile was both academically rigorous and globally relevant. His record showed a deep commitment to research at the intersection of animal health and public safety, an area often underrepresented but critical to global biosecurity and food supply resilience. From his publication citations to his involvement in funded fieldwork and peer-reviewed collaborations, his case reflected the type of specialized contribution we were eager to help present with the nuance and strength it deserved.
Proposed Endeavor that Strengthens the U.S. Public Health Systems
The client intends to continue his research on foodborne and zoonotic pathogens in livestock and animal-source foods. His goal is to improve disease surveillance and public health preparedness by advancing diagnostic tools, risk modeling, and antimicrobial use guidelines in veterinary systems across the U.S.
Notable Contributions to the Field
To support the petition, we presented an evidence-rich profile highlighting his past success, including:
● 5 scholarly publications (4 journal articles and 1 first-authored book chapter), with 3 papers ranked among the top 10% most-cited articles for their publication years
● 217 citations across publications, demonstrating strong international impact in veterinary epidemiology
● One invited peer review for the journal Veterinary World, recognizing his expertise in disease detection and control.
● Collaborative research funded by organizations such as USAID and the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA)
Expert Testimonials Supporting the Petition
The petition was supported by four recommendation letters, including three independent advisory opinions. These letters emphasized the influence and originality of his work in veterinary epidemiology and public health.
“[Client] is working in an area of great national and international importance, as disease control in animal populations impacts numerous industries. Considering the merit of his research in conjunction with his publication in selective journals and the recognition of his work across the field, [client] has clearly established himself as a valued leader and irreplaceable asset in veterinary epidemiology.”
NIW Petition Approved After Comprehensive Review
Following a thorough review, the USCIS approved our client’s NIW petition in 1 year, 4 months, 16 days, without issuing a Request for Evidence (RFE), a reflection of the petition’s clarity and depth. We’re proud to have helped a rising scholar and researcher advance his mission of safeguarding animals and human health. We look forward to seeing his continued impact in the U.S. scientific community.