# Gale — full reference content

> Gale is a business immigration technology platform, not a law firm. Nothing here is legal advice.

# Gale pricing
URL: https://galevisa.com/pricing

flat fee (platform fee plus attorney legal fee) for every visa type's initial filing. RFE responses are usually included (custom pricing models may differ). USCIS government fees are billed separately at cost.

- O-1A (Extraordinary Ability): New petition $8,500; Extension $8,000; Change of employer $8,000; Amendment $8,000
- H-1B Lottery (Cap lottery registration): New petition $0
- H-1B (Specialty Occupation): New petition $999; Extension $999; Change of employer $999; Amendment $999
- L-1 (Intracompany Transfer): New petition $8,500; Extension $8,500; Change of employer $8,500; Amendment $8,500
- TN (NAFTA Professional (Canada/Mexico)): New petition $2,000; Extension $2,000; Change of employer $2,000; Amendment $2,000
- E-3 (Australian Specialty Occupation): New petition $2,000; Extension $2,000; Change of employer $2,000; Amendment $2,000
- J-1 (Exchange Visitor): New petition $2,000
- H-1B1 (Chile/Singapore Specialty Occupation): New petition $2,000; Extension $2,000; Change of employer $2,000; Amendment $2,000
- E-2 (Treaty Investor): New petition $9,000; Extension $9,000; Change of employer $9,000; Amendment $9,000
- Dependents (Spouse or child, per person): New petition $500; Extension $500; Change of employer $500; Amendment $500
- EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability (Self-petition)): I-140 petition $9,000; AOS $4,000
- EB-1B (Outstanding Professor or Researcher): I-140 petition $9,000; AOS $4,000
- EB-1C (Multinational Manager or Executive): I-140 petition $9,000; AOS $4,000
- EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver): I-140 petition $9,000; AOS $4,000
- EB-2 PERM (Advanced Degree (Labor Certification)): I-140 petition $4,000; AOS $4,000; PERM $4,000
- EB-3 PERM (Skilled Worker or Professional (Labor Certification)): I-140 petition $4,000; AOS $4,000; PERM $4,000
- Dependents (Spouse or child, per person): AOS $500

**Are Gale's fees really flat?** Yes. Every visa type's initial filing is billed at the flat price listed on this page. You know the full cost before work begins, with no hourly billing.
**Are RFE responses included in the price?** Usually, yes. Responses to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) are typically included in the listed fee. The exception is cases on a custom pricing model, where RFE handling is set out in your agreement.
**Are USCIS government fees included?** No. Government filing fees are billed separately and passed through at cost with no markup.
**Which visa types does Gale support?** Gale supports employment-based nonimmigrant visas, including H-1B, O-1A, L-1, TN and E-3, and green card cases such as EB-1A, EB-1B, EB-1C, EB-2 NIW and EB-2 PERM and EB-3 PERM.
**Is Gale a law firm?** No. Gale is a technology platform. Legal services are provided by experienced, independent immigration attorneys in Gale's network, who review every petition before filing.
**Do you offer discounts for high-volume employers?** Yes. Companies filing more than 10 cases a year can get discounted per-petition rates, a dedicated team and priority turnaround through a custom pricing model.

---

# U.S. Business Visa & Green Card Information
URL: https://galevisa.com/visas
Last updated: 2026-10-10

U.S. employers usually sponsor foreign talent through temporary work visas (H-1B, O-1A, L-1, TN or E-3) and later through employment-based green cards (EB-1A, EB-1C, EB-2 NIW, or PERM-based EB-2/EB-3). Each page below explains who qualifies, how long it takes, the government fees, and Gale's flat fee (platform fee plus the independent attorney's legal fee).

## Work visas (nonimmigrant)

## Green cards (immigrant)

## Compare visa options at a glance

| Visa | Who it's for | Lottery/cap | Gale platform + legal fee |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| H-1B | Professionals in specialty occupations sponsored by a U.S. employer | 65,000 regular + 20,000 U.S. master's (cap-exempt employers excluded) | $999 · lottery registration $0 |
| O-1A | Founders, researchers, engineers and executives with sustained acclaim | None. File any time of year | $8,500 |
| L-1 | Managers and executives transferring within a multinational company | None | $8,500 |
| TN | Canadian and Mexican citizens in listed USMCA professions | None | $2,000 |
| E-3 | Australian citizens in specialty occupations | 10,500 (historically never reached) | $2,000 |
| EB-1A | Individuals at the top of their field (self-petition) | Annual category limits; see priority dates | $9,000 I-140 · $4,000 AOS |
| EB-1C | Multinational managers and executives | Annual category limits; see priority dates | $9,000 I-140 · $4,000 AOS |
| EB-2 NIW | Advanced-degree professionals, researchers and founders | Annual category limits; see priority dates | $9,000 I-140 · $4,000 AOS |
| PERM | Employees sponsored for EB-2 or EB-3 green cards | Annual category limits; see priority dates | $4,000 PERM · $4,000 I-140 · $4,000 AOS |

Not sure which fits? Estimate costs with the visa cost calculator or book a meeting.

## FAQs

**Which work visa is fastest?** TN (for Canadians at the border), H-1B1 (for Singaporeans/Mexicans) and E-3 (for Australians) are usually fastest. O-1A, L-1, and TN for Mexicans can be decided in 15 business days with premium processing. Cap-subject H-1Bs depend on the March lottery and start October 1.
**Which green card isn't tied to an employer?** The EB-1A (extraordinary ability) and EB-2 National Interest Waiver are self-petitioned and aren't tied to a specific employer.

---

# H-1B Visa Overview: Eligibility, Cost & Timeline
URL: https://galevisa.com/visas/h-1b
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The H-1B lets U.S. employers hire foreign professionals for roles that require at least a bachelor's degree in a specific field. Most new H-1Bs go through an annual lottery in March; selected petitions are filed from April 1 for an October 1 start. Gale handles the full H-1B process for a flat fee (platform fee plus attorney legal fee) of $999, and there is no Gale fee for lottery registration.

- Who it's for: Professionals in specialty occupations sponsored by a U.S. employer
- Initial validity: Up to 3 years, extendable to 6 years total
- Annual cap: 65,000 regular + 20,000 U.S. master's (cap-exempt employers excluded)
- Government Processing Time: 2–6 months regular; 15 business days with premium processing
- Dependents: Spouse and children under 21 on H-4
- Gale fee: $999 · lottery registration $0

## Who qualifies for the H-1B

- A U.S. employer offers a role that normally requires a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific specialty.
- The employee holds that degree (or a foreign equivalent, or equivalent experience under the three-for-one rule).
- The employer pays at least the prevailing or actual wage, whichever is higher, and files a certified Labor Condition Application (LCA).
- Cap-subject employers must register the employee in the March lottery and be selected before filing.

### Cap-exempt employers

Universities, affiliated nonprofits and nonprofit or government research organizations can file H-1B petitions year-round without the lottery.

### Recent policy changes

The lottery is beneficiary-centric, so each person is entered once no matter how many employers register them. A September 2025 presidential proclamation added a $100,000 payment for certain new H-1B petitions for workers outside the United States. Ask your attorney whether it applies to a given case.

### Transfers and extensions

Changing employers (an H-1B transfer) does not require a new lottery. Under H-1B portability, the employee can usually start working once the new petition is filed.

## H-1B timeline

| Stage | Typical timing |
| --- | --- |
| Candidate planning | November – February |
| Electronic registration window | March (about two weeks) |
| Lottery selection notices | By March 31 |
| LCA certification by the Department of Labor | About 7 business days |
| Petition filing window | April 1 – June 30 |
| USCIS decision | 15 business days (premium) or 2–6 months |
| Earliest start date for cap cases | October 1 |

## H-1B cost: Gale and government fees

Gale charges a flat fee (platform fee plus attorney legal fee) for the initial H-1B filing, and RFE responses are usually included. Government fees are paid directly to the agency at cost. See the full fee schedule or estimate your total with the visa cost calculator.

| Filing | Gale price (platform + legal fee) |
| --- | --- |
| New petition | $999 |
| Extension | $999 |
| Change of employer | $999 |
| Amendment | $999 |

| Fee | Amount | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Registration fee | $215 | Per beneficiary, paid at lottery registration |
| Form I-129 (H-1B) | $780 | $460 for employers with 25 or fewer FTEs and nonprofits |
| Asylum Program Fee | $600 | $300 for 25 or fewer FTEs; $0 for nonprofits |
| ACWIA training fee | $1,500 | $750 for 25 or fewer U.S. employees; exempt for some employers |
| Fraud Prevention and Detection fee | $500 | New H-1B and change of employer petitions |
| Public Law 114-113 fee | $4,000 | Only if 50+ U.S. employees and over 50% are on H-1B or L-1 |
| Premium processing (optional) | $2,965 | 15-business-day decision |

> Fee source: Government fees reflect the USCIS fee schedule in effect since April 1, 2024 (Form G-1055). Fees change; always confirm at uscis.gov/g-1055 before filing.

## Documents you'll need

- Employee's passport, current visa and I-94 record
- Degree certificates and transcripts, with a credential evaluation for foreign degrees
- Résumé and experience letters
- Detailed job description, worksite address and salary
- Employer FEIN and basic company information
- Certified LCA (prepared by the attorney)

## How Gale handles the H-1B

Gale's software handles intake, document collection, drafting and tracking. An experienced network attorney owns strategy, legal judgment and final sign-off on every petition.

1. Intake on the Gale platform: HR starts the case in minutes; the employee completes a guided questionnaire and uploads documents to a checklist built for the visa type.
2. Attorney strategy review: A network attorney confirms the role qualifies as a specialty occupation, picks the right wage level and SOC code, and flags RFE risk before anything is filed.
3. Petition preparation: Gale drafts the I-129, job description and specialty-occupation support letter from structured intake data, reducing back-and-forth with HR.
4. Attorney sign-off and filing: The attorney reviews and signs every page, files the LCA and petition, and decides on premium processing with you.
5. Tracking and response: Gale tracks the USCIS receipt and status in one dashboard. If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence, the attorney prepares the response, usually included in the flat fee.

## Related visa information pages

## FAQs

**When is the H-1B lottery?** USCIS runs electronic registration for about two weeks in March and announces selections by March 31. Selected employers can file petitions from April 1 through June 30, with an October 1 start date.
**How much does an H-1B cost in total?** With Gale, the combined Gale price (platform fee plus attorney legal fee) for a new petition is $999. Government fees typically range from about $2,000 to $7,000+ depending on company size, whether the Public Law 114-113 fee applies and whether you add premium processing ($2,965).
**Can the employee pay H-1B fees?** No. The employer must pay the ACWIA training fee and attorney fees for the LCA and petition; these can't be passed on to the employee. Premium processing can be paid by the employee if it is for their benefit.
**How long can someone stay on an H-1B?** Up to six years in three-year increments. Extensions beyond six years are available when a green card process (PERM or an I-140) has reached certain milestones.

---

# O-1A Visa Overview: Eligibility, Cost & Timeline
URL: https://galevisa.com/visas/o-1a
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The O-1A is a U.S. work visa for people with extraordinary ability in science, business, education or athletics, shown through sustained national or international acclaim. It has no annual cap or lottery, so you can file at any time of year. Gale's flat fee (platform fee plus the independent attorney's legal fee) for a new O-1A petition is $8,500.

- Who it's for: Founders, researchers, engineers and executives with sustained acclaim
- Initial validity: Up to 3 years; 1-year extensions with no maximum
- Annual cap: None. File any time of year
- Government Processing Time: 2–4 months regular; 15 business days premium
- Dependents: Spouse and children under 21 on O-3 (no work authorization)
- Gale fee: $8,500

## Who qualifies for the O-1A

- Evidence meeting at least 3 of the 8 regulatory criteria: awards, selective memberships, published material about you, judging others' work, original contributions of major significance, scholarly articles, a critical role at distinguished organizations, or high pay.
- A U.S. employer or agent petitioner (founders can use their own company or an agent).
- An advisory opinion from a relevant peer group or labor organization.
- A defined itinerary or employment terms for the requested period.

## O-1A timeline

| Stage | Typical timing |
| --- | --- |
| Evidence strategy and gap analysis | 1 week |
| Recommendation letters and advisory opinion | 2 weeks |
| Petition drafting and attorney review | 1 week |
| USCIS decision | 15 business days (premium) or 2–4 months |

## O-1A cost: Gale and government fees

Gale charges a flat fee (platform fee plus attorney legal fee) for the initial O-1A filing, and RFE responses are usually included. Government fees are paid directly to the agency at cost. See the full fee schedule or estimate your total with the visa cost calculator.

| Filing | Gale price (platform + legal fee) |
| --- | --- |
| New petition | $8,500 |
| Extension | $8,000 |
| Change of employer | $8,000 |
| Amendment | $8,000 |

| Fee | Amount | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Form I-129 (O) | $1,055 | $530 for employers with 25 or fewer FTEs and nonprofits |
| Asylum Program Fee | $600 | $300 for 25 or fewer FTEs; $0 for nonprofits |
| Premium processing (optional) | $2,965 | 15-business-day decision |

> Fee source: Government fees reflect the USCIS fee schedule in effect since April 1, 2024 (Form G-1055). Fees change; always confirm at uscis.gov/g-1055 before filing.

## Documents you'll need

- Résumé or CV, passport and immigration history
- Evidence for each criterion: awards, press, publications, citations, judging invitations
- Recommendation letters from independent experts
- Proof of compensation relative to the field
- Employment contract or agent itinerary
- Peer-group advisory opinion

## How Gale handles the O-1A

Gale's software handles intake, document collection, drafting and tracking. An experienced network attorney owns strategy, legal judgment and final sign-off on every petition.

1. Intake on the Gale platform: HR starts the case in minutes; the employee completes a guided questionnaire and uploads documents to a checklist built for the visa type.
2. Attorney strategy review: A network attorney maps your record to the eight criteria, decides which three or more to claim, and identifies gaps to close before filing.
3. Petition preparation: Gale organizes evidence by criterion, drafts expert letters for review and assembles the exhibit index automatically.
4. Attorney sign-off and filing: The attorney writes the legal brief, signs off on the full package and files with USCIS, usually with premium processing.
5. Tracking and response: Gale tracks the USCIS receipt and status in one dashboard. If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence, the attorney prepares the response, usually included in the flat fee.

## Related visa information pages

## FAQs

**Do I need a Nobel Prize for an O-1A?** No. A major internationally recognized award alone qualifies, but most O-1A petitions instead show at least three of the eight criteria, such as press coverage, judging, high salary or a critical role at a distinguished company.
**Can a startup founder get an O-1A?** Yes. Founders frequently qualify through venture funding press, a critical role, high compensation or equity, and judging (for example accelerator panels). The petitioner can be the founder's own U.S. company or an agent.
**Is the O-1A better than the H-1B?** The O-1A has no lottery or degree requirement and no six-year maximum, but a higher evidence bar. Many teams file an O-1A for candidates who are strong but miss or lose the H-1B lottery.

---

# L-1 Visa Overview: Eligibility, Cost & Timeline
URL: https://galevisa.com/visas/l-1a
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The L-1A lets multinational companies transfer managers and executives from a foreign office to a related U.S. office. The employee must have worked abroad for the company for at least one continuous year in the last three years. There is no lottery, and Gale's flat fee (platform fee plus the independent attorney's legal fee) for a new L-1 petition is $8,500.

- Who it's for: Managers and executives transferring within a multinational company
- Initial validity: Up to 3 years (1 year for a new U.S. office); 7 years maximum
- Annual cap: None
- Government Processing Time: 2–4 months regular; 15 business days premium
- Dependents: L-2 spouses are work-authorized incident to status
- Gale fee: $8,500

## Who qualifies for the L-1

- A qualifying relationship (parent, subsidiary, branch or affiliate) between the foreign and U.S. entities.
- At least one continuous year of full-time employment abroad with the related entity within the past three years.
- A U.S. role that is primarily managerial or executive.
- For a new U.S. office: secured physical premises and a plan to support an executive role within one year.

## L-1 timeline

| Stage | Typical timing |
| --- | --- |
| Corporate relationship and role analysis | 1 week |
| Petition drafting and attorney review | 1 week |
| USCIS decision | 15 business days (premium) or 2–4 months |

## L-1 cost: Gale and government fees

Gale charges a flat fee (platform fee plus attorney legal fee) for the initial L-1 filing, and RFE responses are usually included. Government fees are paid directly to the agency at cost. See the full fee schedule or estimate your total with the visa cost calculator.

| Filing | Gale price (platform + legal fee) |
| --- | --- |
| New petition | $8,500 |
| Extension | $8,500 |
| Change of employer | $8,500 |
| Amendment | $8,500 |

| Fee | Amount | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Form I-129 (L) | $1,385 | $695 for employers with 25 or fewer FTEs and nonprofits |
| Asylum Program Fee | $600 | $300 for 25 or fewer FTEs; $0 for nonprofits |
| Fraud Prevention and Detection fee | $500 | Initial petitions and change of employer |
| Public Law 114-113 fee | $4,500 | Only if 50+ U.S. employees and over 50% are on H-1B or L-1 |
| Premium processing (optional) | $2,965 | 15-business-day decision |

> Fee source: Government fees reflect the USCIS fee schedule in effect since April 1, 2024 (Form G-1055). Fees change; always confirm at uscis.gov/g-1055 before filing.

## Documents you'll need

- Evidence of the corporate relationship (ownership records, articles)
- Org charts for the foreign and U.S. entities
- Employment verification and payroll for the qualifying year abroad
- Detailed duties for the foreign and U.S. roles
- U.S. office lease and business plan (new offices)
- Company financial statements

## How Gale handles the L-1

Gale's software handles intake, document collection, drafting and tracking. An experienced network attorney owns strategy, legal judgment and final sign-off on every petition.

1. Intake on the Gale platform: HR starts the case in minutes; the employee completes a guided questionnaire and uploads documents to a checklist built for the visa type.
2. Attorney strategy review: A network attorney confirms the qualifying relationship and whether the role reads as managerial, functional-manager or executive, the most common RFE trigger.
3. Petition preparation: Gale collects corporate documents and org charts from both entities and drafts the managerial-capacity narrative from structured inputs.
4. Attorney sign-off and filing: The attorney finalizes the support letter, signs off and files, or uses blanket L for consular processing where available.
5. Tracking and response: Gale tracks the USCIS receipt and status in one dashboard. If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence, the attorney prepares the response, usually included in the flat fee.

## Related visa information pages

## FAQs

**What's the difference between L-1A and L-1B?** L-1A covers managers and executives (7-year maximum, EB-1C green card pathway). L-1B covers employees with specialized knowledge (5-year maximum).
**Can an L-1A lead to a green card?** Yes. L-1A managers and executives often qualify for the EB-1C multinational manager green card, which doesn't require PERM labor certification.

---

# TN Visa Overview: Eligibility, Cost & Timeline
URL: https://galevisa.com/visas/tn
Last updated: 2026-10-10

TN status lets Canadian and Mexican citizens work in the U.S. in one of about 60 professions listed in the USMCA (formerly NAFTA), such as engineer, scientist, accountant or computer systems analyst. Canadians can usually apply at the border, while Mexicans apply for a TN visa at a U.S. consulate. Gale's flat fee (platform fee plus the independent attorney's legal fee) for a new TN case is $2,000.

- Who it's for: Canadian and Mexican citizens in listed USMCA professions
- Initial validity: Up to 3 years; renewable with no maximum
- Annual cap: None
- Government Processing Time: Same day at a port of entry (Canadians); consular wait times (Mexicans)
- Dependents: TD status (no work authorization)
- Gale fee: $2,000

## Who qualifies for the TN

- Canadian or Mexican citizenship (permanent residency in those countries doesn't qualify).
- A U.S. job offer in a profession on the USMCA Appendix 1603.D.1 list.
- The degree, license or credentials required for that profession.
- Non-immigrant intent (temporary employment).

## TN timeline

| Stage | Typical timing |
| --- | --- |
| Profession match and credential review | 2–3 days |
| Support letter drafting and review | 1 week |
| Port-of-entry or consular adjudication | Same day (border) / varies by consulate |

## TN cost: Gale and government fees

Gale charges a flat fee (platform fee plus attorney legal fee) for the initial TN filing, and RFE responses are usually included. Government fees are paid directly to the agency at cost. See the full fee schedule or estimate your total with the visa cost calculator.

| Filing | Gale price (platform + legal fee) |
| --- | --- |
| New petition | $2,000 |
| Extension | $2,000 |
| Change of employer | $2,000 |
| Amendment | $2,000 |

| Fee | Amount | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| CBP processing fee (Canadians at the border) | $50 | Plus the I-94 fee |
| Consular visa fee (Mexicans) | $185 | Non-petition-based MRV fee |
| Form I-129 (E & TN), if filed in the U.S. | $1,015 | $510 for 25 or fewer FTEs; plus Asylum Program Fee |

> Fee source: Government fees reflect the USCIS fee schedule in effect since April 1, 2024 (Form G-1055). Fees change; always confirm at uscis.gov/g-1055 before filing.

## Documents you'll need

- Proof of Canadian or Mexican citizenship
- Job offer / TN support letter describing the profession and duties
- Degree diplomas, transcripts and any required licenses
- Credential evaluation for degrees from outside the U.S., Canada or Mexico

## How Gale handles the TN

Gale's software handles intake, document collection, drafting and tracking. An experienced network attorney owns strategy, legal judgment and final sign-off on every petition.

1. Intake on the Gale platform: HR starts the case in minutes; the employee completes a guided questionnaire and uploads documents to a checklist built for the visa type.
2. Attorney strategy review: A network attorney confirms the job fits a listed profession; mismatches between title and duties are the main cause of denials.
3. Petition preparation: Gale drafts the TN support letter mapped to the exact USMCA profession title and assembles credentials into a border-ready packet.
4. Attorney sign-off and filing: The attorney reviews the packet, preps the employee for the CBP or consular interview, or files an I-129 for extensions in the U.S.
5. Tracking and response: Gale tracks the USCIS receipt and status in one dashboard. If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence, the attorney prepares the response, usually included in the flat fee.

## Related visa information pages

## FAQs

**Is software engineer a TN profession?** Software engineer isn't listed by that title. Roles are usually filed as Engineer (requiring an engineering degree) or Computer Systems Analyst. The duties and the employee's degree must match the category.
**Can a TN holder get a green card?** Yes, but TN requires non-immigrant intent, so timing matters. Many employers move TN employees to H-1B or O-1 status, which allow dual intent, before filing an I-140 or I-485.

---

# E-3 Visa Overview: Eligibility, Cost & Timeline
URL: https://galevisa.com/visas/e-3
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The E-3 is a U.S. work visa only for Australian citizens in specialty occupations: roles that require a bachelor's degree in a specific field. It works much like the H-1B but has its own 10,500-visa annual quota that has never been filled, so there is effectively no lottery. Gale's flat fee (platform fee plus the independent attorney's legal fee) for a new E-3 is $2,000.

- Who it's for: Australian citizens in specialty occupations
- Initial validity: Up to 2 years; renewable indefinitely
- Annual cap: 10,500 (historically never reached)
- Government Processing Time: LCA about 7 business days, then consular appointment
- Dependents: E-3D spouses are work-authorized; spouses need not be Australian
- Gale fee: $2,000

## Who qualifies for the E-3

- Australian citizenship.
- A U.S. job offer in a specialty occupation.
- A relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent.
- A certified LCA showing the employer pays the prevailing or actual wage.

## E-3 timeline

| Stage | Typical timing |
| --- | --- |
| Role and degree review | 2–3 days |
| LCA certification | About 7 business days |
| Consular interview scheduling | Varies by consulate |
| Visa issuance | Often within days of the interview |

## E-3 cost: Gale and government fees

Gale charges a flat fee (platform fee plus attorney legal fee) for the initial E-3 filing, and RFE responses are usually included. Government fees are paid directly to the agency at cost. See the full fee schedule or estimate your total with the visa cost calculator.

| Filing | Gale price (platform + legal fee) |
| --- | --- |
| New petition | $2,000 |
| Extension | $2,000 |
| Change of employer | $2,000 |
| Amendment | $2,000 |

| Fee | Amount | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Consular visa (MRV) fee | $315 | E-category visa application fee |
| Form I-129 (E & TN), if changing status in the U.S. | $1,015 | $510 for 25 or fewer FTEs; plus Asylum Program Fee |

> Fee source: Government fees reflect the USCIS fee schedule in effect since April 1, 2024 (Form G-1055). Fees change; always confirm at uscis.gov/g-1055 before filing.

## Documents you'll need

- Australian passport
- Degree certificates and transcripts, with a U.S. equivalency evaluation
- Employer offer letter and E-3 support letter
- Certified LCA
- DS-160 confirmation

## How Gale handles the E-3

Gale's software handles intake, document collection, drafting and tracking. An experienced network attorney owns strategy, legal judgment and final sign-off on every petition.

1. Intake on the Gale platform: HR starts the case in minutes; the employee completes a guided questionnaire and uploads documents to a checklist built for the visa type.
2. Attorney strategy review: A network attorney confirms the role qualifies as a specialty occupation and recommends consular processing vs. a change of status in the U.S.
3. Petition preparation: Gale prepares the LCA inputs and support letter, and assembles the consular interview packet.
4. Attorney sign-off and filing: The attorney files the LCA, finalizes the packet and preps the employee for the interview.
5. Tracking and response: Gale tracks the USCIS receipt and status in one dashboard. If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence, the attorney prepares the response, usually included in the flat fee.

## Related visa information pages

## FAQs

**Is there an E-3 lottery?** No. The E-3 has its own 10,500 annual quota, separate from the H-1B cap, which has never been reached.
**Can my E-3 spouse work?** Yes. E-3D spouses are work-authorized incident to status and don't need to be Australian citizens.

---

# EB-1A Visa Overview: Eligibility, Cost & Timeline
URL: https://galevisa.com/visas/eb-1a
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The EB-1A is a self-petitioned green card for people with extraordinary ability who have risen to the very top of their field. It needs no employer sponsor, no job offer and no PERM labor certification, and it often has the shortest green card wait. Gale's flat fee (platform fee plus the independent attorney's legal fee) is $9,000 for the I-140, plus $4,000 for adjustment of status.

- Who it's for: Individuals at the top of their field (self-petition)
- Employer required: No
- Labor certification: Not required
- I-140 Government Processing Time: 15 business days premium; 6–12 months regular
- Priority date wait: Usually current except for India and China
- Gale fee: $9,000 I-140 · $4,000 AOS

## Who qualifies for the EB-1A

- A one-time major international award, or evidence for at least 3 of 10 criteria (the O-1A criteria plus exhibitions and commercial success).
- A final merits determination that you have sustained acclaim and are among the small percentage at the top of the field.
- Intent to continue working in the area of extraordinary ability in the U.S.

## EB-1A timeline

| Stage | Typical timing |
| --- | --- |
| Evidence strategy and gap analysis | 1 week |
| Expert recommendation letters | 2 weeks |
| Petition drafting and attorney review | 1 week |
| I-140 adjudication | 15 business days (premium) or 6–12 months |
| Adjustment of status (if priority date current) | 8–14 months |

## EB-1A cost: Gale and government fees

Gale charges a flat fee (platform fee plus attorney legal fee) for the initial EB-1A filing, and RFE responses are usually included. Government fees are paid directly to the agency at cost. See the full fee schedule or estimate your total with the visa cost calculator.

| Filing | Gale price (platform + legal fee) |
| --- | --- |
| I-140 petition | $9,000 |
| AOS | $4,000 |

| Fee | Amount | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Form I-140 | $715 |  |
| Asylum Program Fee | $300 | Self-petitioned I-140 |
| Premium processing (optional) | $2,965 | 15-business-day decision |
| Form I-485 (adjustment of status) | $1,440 | Per applicant aged 14+ |
| Form I-765 / I-131 with a pending I-485 | $260 / $630 | Work permit and travel document |

> Fee source: Government fees reflect the USCIS fee schedule in effect since April 1, 2024 (Form G-1055). Fees change; always confirm at uscis.gov/g-1055 before filing.

## Documents you'll need

- CV and evidence for each criterion claimed
- Independent expert recommendation letters
- Citation data, press coverage, award documentation
- Statement of future work plans in the U.S.
- Civil documents for adjustment of status

## How Gale handles the EB-1A

Gale's software handles intake, document collection, drafting and tracking. An experienced network attorney owns strategy, legal judgment and final sign-off on every petition.

1. Intake on the Gale platform: HR starts the case in minutes; the employee completes a guided questionnaire and uploads documents to a checklist built for the visa type.
2. Attorney strategy review: A network attorney assesses whether the record clears both the criteria and the final merits standard, or whether an EB-2 NIW or O-1A is safer first.
3. Petition preparation: Gale builds the exhibit set and expert-letter drafts, and tracks evidence gaps against the ten criteria.
4. Attorney sign-off and filing: The attorney writes the petition brief, files the I-140 (often concurrently with the I-485) and manages any RFE.
5. Tracking and response: Gale tracks the USCIS receipt and status in one dashboard. If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence, the attorney prepares the response, usually included in the flat fee.

## Related visa information pages

## FAQs

**EB-1A vs. EB-2 NIW: which should I file?** EB-1A has a higher evidence bar but usually a shorter priority-date wait. EB-2 NIW has a lower bar (an advanced degree or exceptional ability plus national interest). Many applicants file both.
**Can I file EB-1A while on an H-1B or O-1?** Yes. Both allow dual intent, and you can keep working while the green card is pending.

---

# EB-1C Visa Overview: Eligibility, Cost & Timeline
URL: https://galevisa.com/visas/eb-1c
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The EB-1C is an employer-sponsored green card for managers and executives of multinational companies, typically people already in the U.S. on an L-1A. It skips PERM labor certification, which makes it one of the fastest employer-sponsored routes to permanent residence. Gale's flat fee (platform fee plus the independent attorney's legal fee) is $9,000 for the I-140, plus $4,000 for adjustment of status.

- Who it's for: Multinational managers and executives
- Employer required: Yes, a U.S. employer doing business for at least 1 year
- Labor certification: Not required
- I-140 Government Processing Time: 15 business days premium; 6–12 months regular
- Gale fee: $9,000 I-140 · $4,000 AOS

## Who qualifies for the EB-1C

- At least one year of managerial or executive employment abroad with a related entity in the three years before the petition (or before L-1 entry).
- A U.S. employer that has been doing business for at least one year and is related to the foreign entity.
- A permanent U.S. role that is managerial or executive.

## EB-1C timeline

| Stage | Typical timing |
| --- | --- |
| Role and corporate structure strategy | 1 week |
| Petition drafting and attorney review | 1 week |
| I-140 adjudication | 45 business days (premium) or 6–12 months |
| Adjustment of status | 8–14 months when the priority date is current |

## EB-1C cost: Gale and government fees

Gale charges a flat fee (platform fee plus attorney legal fee) for the initial EB-1C filing, and RFE responses are usually included. Government fees are paid directly to the agency at cost. See the full fee schedule or estimate your total with the visa cost calculator.

| Filing | Gale price (platform + legal fee) |
| --- | --- |
| I-140 petition | $9,000 |
| AOS | $4,000 |

| Fee | Amount | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Form I-140 | $715 |  |
| Asylum Program Fee | $600 | $300 for 25 or fewer FTEs; $0 for nonprofits |
| Premium processing (optional) | $2,965 | 45-business-day decision for EB-1C |
| Form I-485 | $1,440 | Per applicant aged 14+ |

> Fee source: Government fees reflect the USCIS fee schedule in effect since April 1, 2024 (Form G-1055). Fees change; always confirm at uscis.gov/g-1055 before filing.

## Documents you'll need

- Corporate relationship evidence
- Org charts for the foreign and U.S. entities
- Evidence of managerial duties abroad and in the U.S.
- U.S. company financials and tax returns

## How Gale handles the EB-1C

Gale's software handles intake, document collection, drafting and tracking. An experienced network attorney owns strategy, legal judgment and final sign-off on every petition.

1. Intake on the Gale platform: HR starts the case in minutes; the employee completes a guided questionnaire and uploads documents to a checklist built for the visa type.
2. Attorney strategy review: A network attorney stress-tests the managerial-capacity story, the most scrutinized element of EB-1C.
3. Petition preparation: Gale reuses data from the employee's L-1A case, so corporate and org-chart evidence starts mostly complete.
4. Attorney sign-off and filing: The attorney files the I-140, with the I-485 concurrently when the priority date allows.
5. Tracking and response: Gale tracks the USCIS receipt and status in one dashboard. If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence, the attorney prepares the response, usually included in the flat fee.

## Related visa information pages

## FAQs

**Do I need to be on an L-1A to file EB-1C?** No, but it's the most common path. The requirement is one year of qualifying managerial employment abroad within the relevant three-year window.

---

# EB-2 NIW Visa Overview: Eligibility, Cost & Timeline
URL: https://galevisa.com/visas/eb-2-niw
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) is a self-petitioned green card for professionals with an advanced degree or exceptional ability whose work benefits the United States. It waives both the job offer and PERM labor certification, and is assessed under the three-prong Matter of Dhanasar test. Gale's flat fee (platform fee plus the independent attorney's legal fee) is $9,000 for the I-140, plus $4,000 for adjustment of status.

- Who it's for: Advanced-degree professionals, researchers and founders
- Employer required: No (self-petition)
- Labor certification: Waived
- I-140 Government Processing Time: 45 business days premium; 6–14 months regular
- Priority date wait: Depends on country and the Visa Bulletin
- Gale fee: $9,000 I-140 · $4,000 AOS

## Who qualifies for the EB-2 NIW

- An advanced degree (master's, or bachelor's plus five years' progressive experience) or exceptional ability.
- Prong 1: the proposed work has substantial merit and national importance.
- Prong 2: you're well positioned to advance it (education, track record, plan, interest from others).
- Prong 3: on balance, waiving the job offer and labor certification benefits the U.S.

## EB-2 NIW timeline

| Stage | Typical timing |
| --- | --- |
| Proposed-endeavor strategy and evidence plan | 1 week |
| Recommendation letters | 2 weeks |
| Petition drafting and attorney review | 1 week |
| I-140 adjudication | 45 business days (premium) or 6–14 months |
| Adjustment of status | 8–14 months when the priority date is current |

## EB-2 NIW cost: Gale and government fees

Gale charges a flat fee (platform fee plus attorney legal fee) for the initial EB-2 NIW filing, and RFE responses are usually included. Government fees are paid directly to the agency at cost. See the full fee schedule or estimate your total with the visa cost calculator.

| Filing | Gale price (platform + legal fee) |
| --- | --- |
| I-140 petition | $9,000 |
| AOS | $4,000 |

| Fee | Amount | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Form I-140 | $715 |  |
| Asylum Program Fee | $300 | Self-petitioned I-140 |
| Premium processing (optional) | $2,965 | 45-business-day decision for NIW |
| Form I-485 | $1,440 | Per applicant aged 14+ |

> Fee source: Government fees reflect the USCIS fee schedule in effect since April 1, 2024 (Form G-1055). Fees change; always confirm at uscis.gov/g-1055 before filing.

## Documents you'll need

- Degree and experience evidence
- A clear proposed-endeavor statement
- Publications, citations, patents, funding or customer traction
- Recommendation letters, including from independent experts
- Evidence of national importance (policy reports, industry data)

## How Gale handles the EB-2 NIW

Gale's software handles intake, document collection, drafting and tracking. An experienced network attorney owns strategy, legal judgment and final sign-off on every petition.

1. Intake on the Gale platform: HR starts the case in minutes; the employee completes a guided questionnaire and uploads documents to a checklist built for the visa type.
2. Attorney strategy review: A network attorney defines a proposed endeavor that is specific and nationally important, the most common point of failure.
3. Petition preparation: Gale structures your proposed endeavor and evidence by Dhanasar prong and drafts letters for expert review.
4. Attorney sign-off and filing: The attorney writes the legal brief, files the I-140 and handles any RFE.
5. Tracking and response: Gale tracks the USCIS receipt and status in one dashboard. If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence, the attorney prepares the response, usually included in the flat fee.

## Related visa information pages

## FAQs

**Can founders qualify for an NIW?** Yes. Founders often qualify when their company's work has national importance (for example in AI, climate, health or manufacturing) and they can show traction, funding or expertise.
**Is premium processing available for NIW?** Yes. USCIS offers premium processing for EB-2 NIW I-140s with a 45-business-day decision timeframe.

---

# PERM Visa Overview: Eligibility, Cost & Timeline
URL: https://galevisa.com/visas/perm
Last updated: 2026-10-10

PERM labor certification is the Department of Labor process most employer-sponsored EB-2 and EB-3 green cards require. The employer tests the U.S. labor market for the role before filing the I-140. The DOL charges no fee, but the process takes 1.5–2+ years end to end. Gale's flat fee (platform fee plus the independent attorney's legal fee) is $4,000 each for the PERM, the I-140 and adjustment of status.

- Who it's for: Employees sponsored for EB-2 or EB-3 green cards
- Employer required: Yes
- Government filing fee: None at DOL; I-140 and I-485 fees apply later
- End-to-end timeline: About 18–30 months to I-140 approval
- Who pays: Employer must pay PERM attorney and recruitment costs
- Gale fee: $4,000 PERM · $4,000 I-140 · $4,000 AOS

## Who qualifies for the PERM

- A permanent, full-time job offer from a U.S. employer.
- The employee meets the role's minimum requirements as of hiring.
- The employer can pay the prevailing wage and shows no qualified, willing U.S. workers applied.

## PERM timeline

| Stage | Typical timing |
| --- | --- |
| Job requirements and strategy | 1 week |
| Prevailing wage determination (DOL) | Several months (check DOL FLAG) |
| Recruitment and 30-day quiet period | About 2–3 months |
| PERM drafting and filing | 1–2 weeks |
| ETA-9089 adjudication (DOL) | Often 12–18 months |
| I-140 filing | 15 business days (premium) or 6–12 months |

## PERM cost: Gale and government fees

Gale charges a flat fee (platform fee plus attorney legal fee) for the initial PERM filing, and RFE responses are usually included. Government fees are paid directly to the agency at cost. See the full fee schedule or estimate your total with the visa cost calculator.

| Filing | Gale price (platform + legal fee) |
| --- | --- |
| I-140 petition | $4,000 |
| AOS | $4,000 |
| PERM | $4,000 |

| Fee | Amount | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Prevailing wage and ETA-9089 | $0 | No DOL filing fees |
| Form I-140 | $715 | Plus the $600 Asylum Program Fee ($300 small employers, $0 nonprofits) |
| Premium processing for I-140 (optional) | $2,965 |  |
| Form I-485 | $1,440 | Per applicant aged 14+ |

> Fee source: Government fees reflect the USCIS fee schedule in effect since April 1, 2024 (Form G-1055). Fees change; always confirm at uscis.gov/g-1055 before filing.

## Documents you'll need

- Job description, minimum requirements and worksite
- Employee's degrees and experience letters showing requirements were met
- Recruitment advertisements and results report
- Employer financials showing ability to pay

## How Gale handles the PERM

Gale's software handles intake, document collection, drafting and tracking. An experienced network attorney owns strategy, legal judgment and final sign-off on every petition.

1. Intake on the Gale platform: HR starts the case in minutes; the employee completes a guided questionnaire and uploads documents to a checklist built for the visa type.
2. Attorney strategy review: A network attorney writes minimum requirements that are defensible, the core of a successful PERM and audit avoidance.
3. Petition preparation: Gale coordinates the recruitment calendar, ad placements and applicant tracking so nothing falls out of the regulatory windows.
4. Attorney sign-off and filing: The attorney files the ETA-9089 and, on certification, the I-140 within the 180-day validity window.
5. Tracking and response: Gale tracks the USCIS receipt and status in one dashboard. If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence, the attorney prepares the response, usually included in the flat fee.

## Related visa information pages

## FAQs

**Can the employee pay for PERM?** No. DOL rules require the employer to pay all PERM-related attorney and recruitment costs. I-140 and I-485 costs can legally be shared.
**What's the difference between EB-2 and EB-3 PERM?** EB-2 requires a role that needs an advanced degree (or bachelor's plus five years' experience). EB-3 covers roles needing a bachelor's degree or two years' experience. Priority-date waits differ by category and country.

---

# Immigration for Startups: H-1B, O-1A & Green Cards
URL: https://galevisa.com/for-startups
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Startups can sponsor U.S. work visas from the first hire. The most common routes are the H-1B (via the March lottery), the O-1A for exceptional engineers and founders, and TN or E-3 for Canadian, Mexican and Australian talent. Gale gives early-stage teams flat, published fees and attorneys experienced with venture-backed companies, without needing an in-house immigration function.

## Which visas startups use most

## Can a startup sponsor an H-1B?

Yes. There's no minimum company size or revenue requirement. USCIS will look for a genuine job, the ability to pay the required wage, and (for founders) a real employer-employee relationship, which a board with the power to hire and fire can provide. Small employers also pay reduced USCIS fees: see the cost calculator.

## Why startups choose Gale

- Flat fees that fit a budget. Know the cost of every filing before you start. See pricing.
- No immigration team needed. Founders or a single ops lead can run cases in the dashboard.
- Attorneys who know startups. Evidence strategies for founder O-1As, cap-table questions and new-office L-1s.

## FAQs

**Can a founder sponsor their own visa?** A founder's U.S. company can petition for them, most often for an O-1A, if the company has a real employer-employee relationship (for example a board that can hire and fire). EB-2 NIW and EB-1A are self-petitioned green card options.
**What does it cost a startup to sponsor an H-1B?** Gale's combined fee (platform fee plus the independent attorney's legal fee) for a new H-1B petition is $999. USCIS fees for employers with 25 or fewer employees are reduced, typically about $2,000–$2,500 before optional premium processing.

---

# Immigration Management for HR Teams
URL: https://galevisa.com/for-hr-teams
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Gale gives HR and People teams one dashboard for every visa and green card case: who's in process, what's due and what's expiring. Employees complete guided intake themselves, network attorneys handle legal strategy and sign-off, and flat fees make the annual immigration budget predictable.

## What HR gets

- Case dashboard: Live status for every employee, with milestones and USCIS receipts.
- Expiration tracking: Alerts ahead of H-1B, L-1, O-1 and I-94 end dates, and green card milestones that unlock extensions.
- Employee self-service intake: Guided questionnaires and document checklists, so HR stops chasing PDFs over email.
- Budget forecasting: Flat per-filing fees make the annual plan simple. See pricing.

## Running H-1B cap season

Cap season goes smoothly when candidates are identified in the fall. Use the H-1B cap season timeline to plan registration.

## Compliance essentials

- Maintain LCA public access files for every H-1B and E-3 worker. See LCA.
- File amendments for material changes such as a new worksite outside the LCA's area.
- Keep I-9 reverification on schedule when work authorization documents expire.

## FAQs

**How long does it take to switch to Gale?** Most HR teams move active and upcoming cases in about a week. Gale imports case history and schedules upcoming extensions.
**Does Gale integrate with our HRIS?** Talk with our team about your HRIS. Case data can be exported, and integrations depend on your setup.

---

# Being Sponsored for a U.S. Visa: An Employee's Guide
URL: https://galevisa.com/for-employees
Last updated: 2026-10-10

If your employer sponsors your visa through Gale, you complete a guided online intake, upload documents to a checklist, and can see where your case stands at any time. A licensed immigration attorney prepares and reviews your petition, and questions get a response within 24 hours. Your employer pays the sponsorship fees, and many fees legally have to be paid by the employer.

## What happens, step by step

1. You get an invite: HR starts your case and you receive a link to the Gale portal.
2. Guided intake: Answer questions about your education, work history and immigration history. It saves as you go.
3. Upload documents: Passport, degrees, I-94 and anything specific to your visa type, checked against a list.
4. Attorney review: Your attorney reviews everything, asks follow-ups and finalizes the petition with your sign-off.
5. Filing and updates: You see the USCIS receipt, status and any next steps in your dashboard.

## Documents to have ready

- Passport (and any prior passports with U.S. visas)
- Most recent I-94 record
- Degree certificates and transcripts
- Résumé and employment verification letters
- Prior approval notices (I-797s), if any

## Your attorney and your privacy

Your attorney is an independent, licensed immigration lawyer in Gale's network. Your personal information is handled under our Privacy Policy and protected as described on our security page.

## Pursuing a visa on your own?

If you're self-petitioning, for example for an O-1A, EB-1A or EB-2 NIW, see Gale for individuals.

## FAQs

**Who pays for my visa?** For H-1B and PERM, the employer must pay key fees and attorney costs by law. Other arrangements vary by employer and visa type; your HR team can confirm.
**Can my spouse come with me?** Usually yes, in a dependent category (H-4, L-2, O-3, TD or E-3D). Work rights vary: L-2 and E-3D spouses can work incident to status, and some H-4 spouses qualify for an EAD.
**Is the attorney working for me or my employer?** In employer-sponsored cases the attorney typically represents the employer and, in many cases, the employee jointly. Your attorney will explain the engagement terms at the start.

---

# About Gale: Business Immigration Technology
URL: https://galevisa.com/about
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Gale is a business immigration technology platform operated by HRR Technologies, Inc. We are not a law firm: we build the software that runs intake, document collection, drafting and case tracking, and we connect companies and individuals with a network of experienced, independent immigration attorneys who provide all legal services.

## What we believe

Great companies are built by people from everywhere. The U.S. immigration process shouldn't be the slowest, least predictable part of hiring them.

## How Gale works

- Software does the busywork: Guided intake, document checklists, technology-assisted drafting and real-time tracking.
- Attorneys own the judgment: Every case has a licensed attorney who sets strategy and signs off before filing.
- Prices are published: A flat fee for every initial filing, with RFE responses usually included. See pricing.

## Gale by the numbers

- Visa categories supported: 12+
- Cases filed to date: 1,500+ (across Gale network attorneys)
- First-attempt approval rate: 98% (Jan 2025 – Oct 2026; past results don't guarantee outcomes)
- Response SLA: 24 hours on questions

## Gale is not a law firm

Gale does not provide legal advice and does not share legal fees. Legal services are provided by independent attorneys under a separate attorney-client agreement. See our Terms.

## Company details

- Legal entity: HRR Technologies, Inc. (d/b/a Gale)
- Contact: founders@getgale.app
- Elsewhere: LinkedIn · X · Crunchbase

---

# Security & Data Protection
URL: https://galevisa.com/security
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Immigration cases involve passports, salaries and personal histories, so Gale treats every case file as highly sensitive. Data is encrypted in transit and at rest, access is limited to the people working on a case, and personal data is kept only as long as needed under our Privacy Policy.

## How we protect case data

- Encryption. Data is encrypted in transit with TLS and at rest.
- Least-privilege access. Only the employer's authorized admins, the employee and the assigned attorney can see a case.
- Payment data. Card payments are handled by our payment processor; Gale does not retain complete card numbers.
- Authentication. Secure sign-in for every user at app.galevisa.com.

## Data retention and deletion

We retain personal data while your account is open or as needed to provide the Services and meet legal obligations, as described in our Privacy Policy. Contact us to request access or deletion.

## Compliance

Security questionnaires and compliance documentation are available to customers on request.

## Report a vulnerability

If you believe you've found a security issue, email founders@getgale.app with details. Please don't access other users' data or disrupt the service. See also our security.txt.

## FAQs

**Who can see my immigration documents?** The authorized admins at your employer, you, and the attorney assigned to your case. Gale staff access is limited to what's needed to support the service.
**Does Gale sell my data?** No. How data is used and shared is described in the Privacy Policy.

---

# Customer Stories
URL: https://galevisa.com/customers
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Companies use Gale to shorten visa cycles, see every case in one place, and replace unpredictable legal bills with flat fees. Here is what customers told us about switching.

## Northstar: H-1B cycle time cut in half

Northstar's People team moved their H-1B program from a traditional firm to Gale. "What used to take three months with our old firm now closes in six weeks, and the quality is noticeably better," says Rachel T., Head of People.

## ARC: one view of every case

"Every team member can see exactly where their case stands, and the attorney is always reachable," says James O., VP Engineering at ARC.

## Meridian: O-1A approved without an RFE

Research scientist Priya M. filed her O-1A through Gale. "My O-1A was approved without an RFE on the first attempt. The evidence framework Gale's network attorney recommended was surgical."

## Foundry: switched firms in a week

"Switching to Gale from our previous firm took one week. The savings were immediate," says Daniel K., Director of HR. Read Gale vs. traditional law firms.

---

# Press & Media Kit
URL: https://galevisa.com/press
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Gale is a business immigration technology platform that pairs purpose-built software with a network of experienced immigration attorneys. Journalists can use the boilerplate, facts and logo below, and reach our team by email.

## Boilerplate

Gale (HRR Technologies, Inc.) is a business immigration technology platform. Gale pairs purpose-built software with a network of experienced, independent immigration attorneys, so companies can sponsor H-1B, O-1A, L-1, TN, E-3 and green card cases faster, with flat, published fees and full visibility from intake to filing. Gale is not a law firm. Learn more at galevisa.com.

## Key facts

- Company: HRR Technologies, Inc. (d/b/a Gale)
- Category: Business immigration technology
- Visa categories: 12+
- Cases filed: 1,500+
- Website: galevisa.com

## Brand assets

Please don't alter the logo or its colors. The logo works best on dark charcoal (#181818).

## Media contact

Email founders@getgale.app with the subject "Press".

---

# Contact Gale | Business Immigration Platform
URL: https://galevisa.com/contact
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The fastest way to reach Gale is to book a demo with our team. For support, partnerships or press, email us; we respond within 24 hours on business days. Existing customers can also message their team in the Gale app.

## Ways to reach us

> Please note: Sending information to Gale doesn't create an attorney-client relationship. Don't send sensitive case documents by email; use the secure app instead.

---

# Editorial Policy
URL: https://galevisa.com/editorial-policy
Last updated: 2026-10-19

Gale blog articles are drafted with AI assistance, fact-checked against primary government sources, and reviewed and approved by Haokun Qin, Gale's founder, before publication. They explain how U.S. business immigration works in general. They aren't legal advice and aren't reviewed by an attorney.

## Who is responsible

Haokun Qin, founder of Gale, approves every article before it's published and is named on each one. He reads the article, its sources and its fact-check report, and rejects or sends back anything that is inaccurate, thin or unclear.

## How an article is made

1. Brief: Each article starts as a brief: the question it answers, who it's for, the new information it adds and the primary sources it must use. Haokun approves the brief before any drafting starts.
2. Research: We collect the relevant passages from primary sources, search for further sources on the facts the article needs, and record the date we accessed each one.
3. AI-assisted drafting: An AI language model drafts the article from the brief and those passages, following our style guide. Every factual sentence is tied to the source it comes from.
4. Fact-checking: Automated checks confirm that every fee, date and number appears in the cited source, that links work, and that the article makes no guarantees and gives no individual advice. A second AI model, from a different provider, checks each claim against its source.
5. Review and approval: Haokun reviews the article with its fact-check report, then approves it, asks for changes or rejects it. Nothing is published without his approval.

## Sources we rely on

We cite primary sources: the Immigration and Nationality Act, the Code of Federal Regulations, the Federal Register, and official pages and data from USCIS, the Department of Labor, the State Department and other government agencies. Rules, fees, forms and deadlines always come from these. For how the rules work in practice, and for analysis and figures they publish, we may also cite large immigration law firms, immigration and global mobility platforms, research organizations and large, non-partisan news outlets, and we name them when we do. We don't use blogs, forums or marketing pages as sources. Each article lists its sources at the end, numbered in the order they're cited, with the date we accessed them.

When an article includes an original statistic, it's calculated from published government data, such as Department of Labor disclosure files, and the article names the dataset and period it used.

## What our articles don't do

- Give legal advice. Articles explain how the rules work in general. For your situation, talk to an immigration attorney.
- Promise outcomes. Every case depends on its facts, so we don't guarantee approvals or timelines.
- Claim attorney review. Blog articles aren't reviewed by an attorney. Legal services on Gale are provided by independent attorneys under their own agreements with clients.

## Updates and corrections

Immigration rules and fees change. We monitor the Federal Register, USCIS announcements and the sources each article cites, and revisit articles when they change. An article shows an "Updated" date only when its content changes in substance. If you spot an error, email founders@getgale.app and we'll correct it.

## Independence

Gale is a technology platform, not a law firm. Articles may link to Gale's own pages, such as pricing, but they're written to be useful whether or not you use Gale.

---

# H-1B Cap Season Timeline & Key Dates
URL: https://galevisa.com/resources/h-1b-cap-timeline
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The H-1B cap season follows the same annual pattern. Employers plan candidates from November to February, USCIS opens electronic registration for about two weeks in March, and selections are announced by March 31. Selected petitions are filed between April 1 and June 30, and approved workers can start on October 1. USCIS announces exact dates each year, usually in January or February.

## Key dates at a glance

| When | Milestone | What employers should do |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Oct – Dec | Candidate planning | List foreign-national hires and OPT/STEM OPT employees needing H-1B; confirm degrees and roles. |
| Jan – Feb | USCIS announces dates | Create or update the USCIS organizational account; collect passports and degree details. |
| Early – mid March | Registration window (about 2 weeks) | Submit one registration per beneficiary and pay the $215 fee. |
| By March 31 | Selection notices | Check the USCIS account; start LCAs for selected candidates. |
| April 1 – June 30 | Petition filing window | File complete I-129 petitions; consider premium processing. |
| July – August | Possible second-round selections | If USCIS runs another round, file within the new window. |
| October 1 | Start date | Approved H-1B workers can begin in H-1B status; cap-gap ends. |

## Planning tips

- Identify candidates early. Document gaps, like missing transcripts or credential evaluations, are the main reason employers rush.
- Check cap-gap eligibility for F-1 students. See cap-gap.
- Have an O-1A backup plan for strong candidates who aren't selected. See the O-1A overview.
- Budget for fees with the visa cost calculator.

## FAQs

**When does H-1B registration open?** USCIS typically opens H-1B registration in early-to-mid March for about two weeks and announces the exact dates in January or February.
**When are H-1B lottery results announced?** USCIS notifies selected registrants by March 31 through their online accounts.
**When can an H-1B cap employee start work?** October 1, the start of the federal fiscal year, or later if the petition is approved after that date.

---

# Compare Gale: Law Firms & Immigration Platforms
URL: https://galevisa.com/compare
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Gale is a business immigration technology platform with a network of independent attorneys, flat published fees and a real-time case dashboard. These comparisons explain how that differs from traditional law firms and other immigration providers, and when each option is the better fit.

## Comparisons

---

# Gale vs. Traditional Immigration Law Firms
URL: https://galevisa.com/compare/gale-vs-traditional-law-firms
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Traditional immigration firms usually bill by the hour or by custom quote and manage cases over email. Gale pairs purpose-built software with experienced independent attorneys, publishes a flat fee for every filing, and gives HR a live view of every case. Legal judgment stays with a licensed attorney either way; the difference is speed, cost predictability and visibility.

## At a glance

|  | Gale | Typical traditional firm |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Pricing | Published flat fee per filing; RFE responses usually included; USCIS fees at cost | Hourly or custom quotes; RFEs often billed separately |
| Case visibility | Real-time case dashboard for HR, employees and attorneys | Status updates by email or periodic reports |
| Intake | Guided questionnaires and document checklists | Email, PDFs and spreadsheets |
| Drafting | Technology-assisted drafting, attorney-reviewed | Drafted manually by paralegals and associates |
| Attorney involvement | A licensed attorney reviews and signs every petition | A licensed attorney reviews and signs every petition |
| Response time | 24-hour SLA on responding to questions | Varies by firm and partner workload |

## Where Gale is stronger

- Predictable budgets. Every initial filing has a published flat fee, so finance can forecast the immigration budget a year ahead.
- Faster cycles. Structured intake and parallel workflows remove the weeks typically lost chasing documents.
- One source of truth. HR, employees and attorneys work in a shared case dashboard instead of email threads.

## When a traditional firm may fit better

- Litigation in federal court, removal defense or complex criminal-immigration issues.
- Family-based or humanitarian cases outside Gale's employment-based focus.
- Organizations that need a single firm for immigration plus unrelated legal matters.

## Switching from your current firm

Most teams move active and upcoming cases in about a week. Gale imports case history, schedules upcoming extensions, and the new attorney of record files a G-28 where needed. Read more about how Gale works for HR teams.

> How we wrote this: This comparison reflects publicly available information as of the date above. Competitor offerings and pricing change often, so confirm details directly with each provider. All trademarks belong to their respective owners.

## FAQs

**Is Gale cheaper than a law firm?** Gale's published flat fees are often lower than hourly or custom-quoted firm pricing. Customers report average savings of about 30% versus traditional billing, though savings vary by case mix.
**Are Gale's network attorneys real immigration lawyers?** Yes. Every case is handled by a licensed, experienced immigration attorney from Gale's independent network, who owns strategy and signs off before filing.

---

# Gale vs. Envoy Global: Business Immigration Platforms Compared
URL: https://galevisa.com/compare/gale-vs-envoy-global
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Envoy Global and Gale both offer technology for managing employer-sponsored immigration, with legal services delivered by attorneys. Envoy is a long-established platform often used by large enterprises for global mobility programs. Gale focuses on U.S. employment-based visas with published flat fees per filing, usually including RFE responses.

## At a glance

|  | Gale | Envoy Global |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Model | Technology platform with a network of independent immigration attorneys; Gale is not a law firm | Immigration management platform with affiliated legal services |
| Pricing | Published flat fee per filing; RFE responses usually included; USCIS fees at cost | Typically quoted per client; confirm directly with Envoy |
| Best fit | Startups through mid-size and growing enterprises wanting transparent per-case pricing | Large enterprises with global mobility programs |
| Focus | Employment-based visas and green cards (H-1B, O-1A, L-1, TN, E-3, EB-1, EB-2 NIW, PERM) | U.S. and global immigration |

## How to choose

- Choose Gale if you want to know the price of each filing upfront and give HR and employees one real-time dashboard.
- Consider Envoy Global if you need one vendor for immigration in many countries alongside U.S. cases.

> How we wrote this: This comparison reflects publicly available information as of the date above. Competitor offerings and pricing change often, so confirm details directly with each provider. All trademarks belong to their respective owners.

---

# Gale vs. Boundless: Which Immigration Platform Fits Your Company?
URL: https://galevisa.com/compare/gale-vs-boundless
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Boundless is widely known for helping individuals and families with marriage-based green cards and citizenship, and also offers services for employers. Gale is built specifically for employment-based immigration: H-1B, O-1A, L-1, TN, E-3 and employment green cards, with flat published fees and a shared dashboard for HR, employees and attorneys.

## At a glance

|  | Gale | Boundless |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Primary focus | Employment-based visas and green cards (H-1B, O-1A, L-1, TN, E-3, EB-1, EB-2 NIW, PERM) | Family-based green cards and citizenship, plus employer services |
| Pricing | Published flat fee per filing; RFE responses usually included; USCIS fees at cost | Published packages for many family cases; confirm employer pricing directly |
| HR tooling | Real-time case dashboard for HR, employees and attorneys | Confirm employer dashboard features with Boundless |

## How to choose

- Choose Gale for employer-sponsored work visas and employment-based green cards run by HR.
- Consider Boundless for marriage-based green cards, naturalization and other family cases.

> How we wrote this: This comparison reflects publicly available information as of the date above. Competitor offerings and pricing change often, so confirm details directly with each provider. All trademarks belong to their respective owners.

---

# Gale vs. Deel Immigration: Specialist vs. All-in-One HR
URL: https://galevisa.com/compare/gale-vs-deel-immigration
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Deel offers immigration and visa support as part of its global payroll, HR and employer-of-record platform, which suits companies that already run international hiring through Deel. Gale is a specialist in U.S. employment-based immigration, pairing purpose-built case software with experienced independent attorneys and flat, published fees per filing.

## At a glance

|  | Gale | Deel Immigration |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Model | Technology platform with a network of independent immigration attorneys; Gale is not a law firm | Immigration services within a global HR / EOR platform |
| Depth in U.S. categories | Employment-based visas and green cards (H-1B, O-1A, L-1, TN, E-3, EB-1, EB-2 NIW, PERM) | Confirm supported U.S. categories with Deel |
| Pricing | Published flat fee per filing; RFE responses usually included; USCIS fees at cost | Confirm directly with Deel |
| Best fit | Companies sponsoring U.S. talent that want specialist depth | Companies already using Deel for global payroll or EOR |

## How to choose

- Choose Gale if U.S. visas and green cards are core to hiring and you want specialist attorneys and transparent per-case fees.
- Consider Deel if consolidating immigration into an existing global HR contract matters most.

> How we wrote this: This comparison reflects publicly available information as of the date above. Competitor offerings and pricing change often, so confirm details directly with each provider. All trademarks belong to their respective owners.

---

# Gale vs. Alma: O-1, EB-1 and H-1B Options Compared
URL: https://galevisa.com/compare/gale-vs-alma
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Alma is a technology-forward immigration provider known for serving founders and tech talent pursuing O-1, EB-1 and similar visas. Gale is a technology platform, not a law firm, that connects employers and individuals with a network of independent immigration attorneys, with flat published fees across every employment-based category.

## At a glance

|  | Gale | Alma |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Model | Technology platform with a network of independent immigration attorneys; Gale is not a law firm | Tech-enabled immigration practice; confirm structure with Alma |
| Coverage | Employment-based visas and green cards (H-1B, O-1A, L-1, TN, E-3, EB-1, EB-2 NIW, PERM) | Strong focus on talent visas such as O-1 and EB-1 |
| Employer tooling | Real-time case dashboard for HR, employees and attorneys | Confirm employer features with Alma |
| Pricing | Published flat fee per filing; RFE responses usually included; USCIS fees at cost | Confirm directly with Alma |

## How to choose

- Choose Gale if you want one platform for an employer's full caseload, from H-1B lottery to PERM, at published flat fees.
- Consider Alma if you are an individual focused only on an extraordinary-ability petition and prefer its approach.

> How we wrote this: This comparison reflects publicly available information as of the date above. Competitor offerings and pricing change often, so confirm details directly with each provider. All trademarks belong to their respective owners.

---

# Immigration Resources for Employers & Talent
URL: https://galevisa.com/resources
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Free tools and reference material for HR teams, founders and sponsored employees: plain-English visa information pages, an H-1B cap season calendar, a visa cost calculator, and a glossary of immigration terms.

## Tools and timelines

## Popular visa information pages

## By audience

---

# RFE (Request for Evidence): Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/rfe
Last updated: 2026-10-10

An RFE is a notice from USCIS asking for more documents or explanation before it decides a petition.

## What RFE means

An RFE pauses adjudication. The petitioner usually has up to 87 days to respond, and USCIS issues a decision after reviewing the response.

Common H-1B RFE topics are specialty occupation, wage level and the employer-employee relationship. On Gale, RFE responses are usually included in the flat fee.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# NOID (Notice of Intent to Deny): Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/noid
Last updated: 2026-10-10

A NOID tells the petitioner that USCIS plans to deny a case and gives a final chance to respond, usually within 33 days.

## What NOID means

A NOID is more serious than an RFE: USCIS has identified a problem it believes is disqualifying. A strong, targeted response can still lead to approval.

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# LCA (Labor Condition Application): Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/lca
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The LCA (Form ETA-9035) is a Department of Labor filing in which an employer attests to wages and working conditions before filing an H-1B or E-3.

## What LCA means

The employer commits to pay at least the higher of the prevailing and actual wage, to give notice at the worksite, and to keep a public access file. Certification typically takes about seven business days.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# PERM (PERM Labor Certification): Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/perm
Last updated: 2026-10-10

PERM is the Department of Labor process that shows there are no qualified, willing U.S. workers for a role, required for most employer-sponsored EB-2 and EB-3 green cards.

## What PERM means

PERM involves a prevailing wage determination, a prescribed recruitment campaign, and filing Form ETA-9089. Employers must pay all PERM-related costs.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Prevailing Wage: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/prevailing-wage
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The prevailing wage is the average wage paid to similarly employed workers in a given occupation and area, set by the Department of Labor.

## What Prevailing Wage means

It is based on the SOC occupation code, worksite location and one of four wage levels. H-1B, E-3 and PERM employers must pay at least the prevailing wage.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Form I-129: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/i-129
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Form I-129 is the USCIS Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, used for H-1B, L-1, O-1 and in-country TN and E-3 filings.

## What Form I-129 means

The employer (petitioner) files the I-129 on behalf of the employee (beneficiary), with category-specific supplements and supporting evidence.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Form I-140: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/i-140
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Form I-140 is the Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, the USCIS petition that classifies someone for an employment-based green card category.

## What Form I-140 means

An approved I-140 locks in the priority date in most categories. EB-1A and EB-2 NIW applicants can self-petition; other categories need an employer.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# AOS (Form I-485): Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/i-485
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Form I-485 is the application to adjust status to permanent resident (green card) from inside the United States.

## What AOS means

It can be filed with or after an I-140 when the applicant's priority date is current. Applicants can request a work permit (I-765) and travel document (I-131) while it's pending.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Form I-797 (Notice of Action): Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/i-797
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Form I-797 is the USCIS Notice of Action used for receipts, approvals, RFEs and other case updates.

## What Form I-797 (Notice of Action) means

An I-797C is a receipt notice; an I-797A or I-797B is an approval notice. The receipt number lets you track the case on the USCIS website.

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Form I-94: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/i-94
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The I-94 is the arrival/departure record showing a nonimmigrant's status and the date their authorized stay ends.

## What Form I-94 means

CBP creates it electronically at entry. The I-94 end date, not the visa stamp, controls how long someone may stay.

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Priority Date: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/priority-date
Last updated: 2026-10-10

A priority date is a green card applicant's place in line, usually the date the PERM or I-140 was filed.

## What Priority Date means

When demand exceeds annual limits, applicants wait until their priority date is current in the monthly Visa Bulletin. Waits vary by category and country of birth.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Visa Bulletin: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/visa-bulletin
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The Visa Bulletin is the State Department's monthly chart showing which green card priority dates can move forward, by category and country.

## What Visa Bulletin means

It has two charts: Final Action Dates (when a green card can be approved) and Dates for Filing (when an I-485 can be submitted, if USCIS allows).

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Premium Processing: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/premium-processing
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Premium processing is an optional USCIS service that guarantees action on certain petitions within 15 business days (45 for some I-140s) for an extra fee.

## What Premium Processing means

It's available for most I-129 categories and for I-140s, including EB-2 NIW and EB-1C. The current fee is listed on the USCIS fee schedule.

## Where it comes up

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Cap-Exempt Employer: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/cap-exempt
Last updated: 2026-10-10

A cap-exempt employer can file H-1B petitions year-round without the lottery, typically universities, affiliated nonprofits and research organizations.

## What Cap-Exempt Employer means

People already counted against the cap within the past six years are also generally exempt when changing employers.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Cap-Gap Extension: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/cap-gap
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Cap-gap automatically extends an F-1 student's status and work authorization until the H-1B start date on October 1.

## What Cap-Gap Extension means

It applies when a cap-subject H-1B change-of-status petition is filed on time while OPT or the grace period is still valid.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Specialty Occupation: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/specialty-occupation
Last updated: 2026-10-10

A specialty occupation is a role that requires theoretical and practical application of specialized knowledge and at least a bachelor's degree in a specific field.

## What Specialty Occupation means

It's the core H-1B and E-3 requirement and a frequent RFE topic. A clear job description tying the duties to a specific degree field is essential.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Petitioner: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/petitioner
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The petitioner is the person or organization that files an immigration petition, usually the U.S. employer.

## What Petitioner means

In self-petitions such as EB-1A and EB-2 NIW, the petitioner and beneficiary are the same person.

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Beneficiary: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/beneficiary
Last updated: 2026-10-10

The beneficiary is the person who will receive the immigration benefit a petition requests, usually the employee.

## What Beneficiary means

Spouses and children may qualify as derivative beneficiaries.

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# AOS (Adjustment of Status): Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/adjustment-of-status
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Adjustment of status is the process of becoming a green card holder from inside the U.S. without returning abroad for a visa interview.

## What AOS means

It is filed on Form I-485. The alternative is consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Consular Processing: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/consular-processing
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Consular processing is applying for a U.S. visa or immigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

## What Consular Processing means

E-3 and TN (for Mexican nationals) are typically consular-processed, and some green card applicants choose it instead of adjustment of status.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# H-4 Dependent Status: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/h-4
Last updated: 2026-10-10

H-4 status covers the spouse and unmarried children under 21 of an H-1B holder.

## What H-4 Dependent Status means

Some H-4 spouses can get work authorization (H-4 EAD), for example once the H-1B holder has an approved I-140.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# EAD (Employment Authorization Document): Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/ead
Last updated: 2026-10-10

An EAD (Form I-766) is a USCIS-issued work permit card, applied for on Form I-765.

## What EAD means

Common EAD routes include a pending I-485, H-4 EAD and OPT for F-1 students.

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Change of Status: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/change-of-status
Last updated: 2026-10-10

A change of status switches someone from one nonimmigrant category to another while they remain in the U.S., such as F-1 to H-1B.

## What Change of Status means

It is requested on the employer's I-129 (or an I-539 for dependents) and avoids traveling abroad for a new visa stamp.

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# Concurrent Filing: Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/concurrent-filing
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Concurrent filing means submitting the I-140 and I-485 together when the priority date is current.

## What Concurrent Filing means

It can speed up getting a work permit and travel document because the I-485 is pending sooner.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# NIW (National Interest Waiver): Definition & Meaning
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary/national-interest-waiver
Last updated: 2026-10-10

A National Interest Waiver lets an EB-2 applicant skip the job offer and PERM requirement when their work benefits the United States.

## What NIW means

USCIS evaluates NIW cases under the three-prong Matter of Dhanasar framework.

## Where it comes up

## Related terms

Browse the full immigration glossary.

---

# U.S. Immigration Glossary: Key Terms Defined
URL: https://galevisa.com/glossary
Last updated: 2026-10-10

Short, plain-English definitions of the terms that come up in U.S. employment-based immigration, from RFEs and LCAs to priority dates and PERM. Each term links to a fuller explanation and the visa information pages where it matters.

## All terms