Success Stories: Iranian Expert in Charge of Sewage Treatment Plants Wins NIW Approval for Sustainable Wastewater Treatment Research
Client’s Testimonial:
“Thank you for all your effort, follow-up, and discipline during the preparation and completion of the case.”
On September 6th, 2025, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for an Expert in Charge of Sewage Treatment Plants in the field of Civil-Environmental Engineering (Approval Notice).
General Field: Civil-Environmental Engineering
Position at the Time of Case Filing: Expert in Charge of Sewage Treatment Plants
Country of Origin: Iran
Country of Residence at the Time of Filing: Iran
Approval Notice Date: September 6th, 2025
Processing Time: 1 year, 7 months, 21 days
Case Summary:
We are pleased to share the EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval of an expert in charge of sewage treatment plants from Iran. The client’s research focuses on wastewater treatment technologies that improve water quality and public health while lowering environmental costs. At the time of filing, he was engaged in projects aimed at reducing energy demands and recovering renewable resources. His publications, citations, and recognition as a credible researcher established him as a strong candidate for NIW approval.
Research with Substantial Merit and National Importance
The client’s proposed endeavor involves optimizing treatment systems through microbiological approaches, anaerobic-aerobic methods, and micro-nanobubble technology. These innovations improve contaminant removal, cut power consumption, and extend the sustainability of treatment infrastructure. Wastewater facilities are among the largest consumers of energy in the U.S., and these solutions support national priorities in climate action, clean water, and environmental safety.
Well Positioned to Advance the Proposed Endeavor
The client holds a Ph.D. in civil engineering with a focus on environmental systems. He has authored 5 peer-reviewed journal articles and 1 conference paper, with 3 first-authored works, all published in respected venues in the field. His research has been cited 67 times by independent scholars worldwide, with one paper ranked among the top 10 percent of most cited in engineering for its publication year.
Beyond publications, his expertise spans projects such as optimized up-flow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor design, nano-silica enhanced plastic concrete for dam safety, and hybrid anaerobic-aerobic systems. These diverse achievements reflect both technical innovation and practical application. His record demonstrates that he is exceptionally well-positioned to continue advancing environmentally critical wastewater treatment technologies.
Recognition from Experts
Independent recommenders emphasized both the originality and the practical value of his work.
One expert noted:
“To further reduce the negative health and environmental impacts of the wastewater treatment industry, it is imperative that [client]’s research be permitted to continue in the United States, because of his remarkable experience in environmental fields.”
This endorsement highlights how his expertise not only advances scientific understanding but also delivers tangible benefits for public health and environmental protection.
NIW Approval and Outlook
The I-140 NIW petition was filed on January 16, 2024, and approved on September 6, 2025. USCIS recognized his publications, citation impact, and nationally relevant research as sufficient to satisfy the NIW criteria.
With NAILG’s support, the client secured NIW approval and is now prepared to continue his research in the United States. His ongoing work in wastewater treatment technologies promises to strengthen environmental protection, reduce energy use, and support U.S. leadership in sustainable infrastructure.