Success Stories: Pediatric Cardiologist Obtains EB-2 NIW Approval Following RFE Response
Client’s Testimonial:
“Thank you very much for your efforts and help! The best New Year’s gift I have ever received.”
On January 3rd, 2025, we received another EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval for a Pediatric Cardiologist (Approval Notice).
General Field: Pediatric Cardiology
Position at the Time of Case Filing: Pediatric Cardiologist
Country of Origin: Iran
Country of Residence at the Time of Filing: Iran
Approval Notice Date: January 3rd, 2025
Processing Time: 1 year, 19 days
Case Summary:
We are pleased to share the success story of an EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver) approval granted to a pediatric cardiologist from Iran whose research is helping advance improved interventions and treatments for congenital cardiac diseases. At the time of filing, the client had completed a doctorate in medicine and was already recognized for producing impactful work in the field of pediatric cardiology.
Research with Substantial Merit and National Importance:
NAILG reviewed the client’s accomplishments and confirmed that his proposed endeavor, to continue advancing research on improved interventions for congenital cardiac diseases, has both substantial merit and national importance. His work focuses on improving treatment outcomes for pediatric patients with genetic syndromes, a vulnerable group requiring specialized interventions.
The client’s proposed research aims to significantly improve patient outcomes through:
- Determining how the success of congenital cardiac interventions differs between patients with genetic syndromes and those without.
- Developing new techniques and materials for aortic coarctation stenting in small children.
- Clarifying aspects of aortopathies to improve clinical treatment approaches.
- Promoting the administration of stem cells in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy as a bridge to cardiac transplantation.
A testimonial submitted in support of the case emphasized the unique value of his work: “Overall, [Client] experience conducting clinical research on this procedure in a pediatric setting provides him with a distinct perspective that is useful for advancing accessible treatment options for this disease.”
Evidence of Distinction in the Field:
The client has established himself as a leader in pediatric cardiology. His professional achievements include:
- Serving as a section editor for a respected journal demonstrates recognition of his expertise in guiding scientific discourse.
- Completing at least 240 peer reviews further confirms his standing as a trusted evaluator of others’ work.
- Authoring 52 peer-reviewed journal articles (17 first-authored) and 2 preprints (1 first-authored).
- Accumulating 545 total citations of his published work reflects the impact and influence of his contributions within the scientific community.
RFE and Approval:
Although this case received a Request for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS, NAILG prepared a strong and comprehensive response that addressed all concerns raised. This ensured that the adjudicating officer had a clear understanding of the national importance and significance of the client’s proposed endeavor. Ultimately, the petition was approved after 1 year and 19 days of processing, marking a successful outcome.
NAILG is honored to have assisted him in securing this NIW approval and looks forward to seeing the far-reaching impact of his continued contributions.

