What is “National Importance”?
"National Importance" refers to the significant impact that a foreign national's work or proposed endeavor will have on the United States.
“ if the evidence of record demonstrates that the person’s proposed endeavor has the significant potential to broadly enhance societal welfare or cultural or artistic enrichment, or to contribute to the advancement of a valuable technology or field of study, it may rise to the level of national importance” [USCIS Policy Manual]
This means your proposed endeavor doesn’t necessarily have to already rise to the level of national importance; you only need to show that it has such potential.
How to demonstrate “National Importance”?
Step 1. Find U.S government policies that backup your research topic.
IF you use “Google”:
keywords+white house
keywords+.gov
keywords+principle/NGO/organization
If you use ChatGPT:
AI prompt: find the news, orders, policies that support: National Strategy's emphasis on+ keywords
Some examples of supporting documents for AI research.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Key AI Actions 180 Days Following President Biden’s Landmark Executive Order. integrating AI into critical infrastructure, scientific research, solve complex data problems, drive technological progress.
How to select Keywords:
In last post about substantial merit, you already defined subtopics or applications of your research. Use those as your keywords.
Step 2. Demonstrate “national importance”.
Example:
XXX’s research is of national interest because:
Topic 1: describe your research work, why it is important, how to benefit the US, supporting the US XXX goal of XXX. (Exhibit XXX)
….
STEM Applicants.
It is relatively easier for STEM applicants to demonstrate national importance. USCIS recognizes the importance of progress in STEM fields and the essential role of individuals with advanced STEM degrees in fostering this progress, especially in critical and emerging technologies or other STEM areas important to U.S. competitiveness or national security. Just check those lists to see how your proposed endeavor fits in to demonstrate your national importance.