EB-2 green card application is divided into two categories: employer-sponsored and self-sponsored. It is one of the most common methods for obtaining permanent residency in the United States. Individuals eligible for the EB-2 employer-sponsored green card application must meet one of the following conditions:

1. EB-2a Advanced Degree Category: This is available to individuals who possess an advanced degree and have a job offer from a U.S. employer.
2. EB-2b Exceptional Ability Category: This is available to individuals who have exceptional ability in the sciences, business, or arts, and have a job offer from a U.S. employer.

For the EB-2 green card application, an advanced degree includes:

1. Master’s degree or higher;
2. A bachelor’s degree plus 5 years of progressive work experience in the professional field.

In contrast, self-sponsored green card types allow individuals to apply for the green card on their own and cover the associated costs. Applicants eligible for self-sponsorship must meet one of the following conditions:

1. National Interest Waiver (NIW): The applicant must not only possess exceptional ability but also demonstrate their capability to make a substantial impact on the national interests of the United States.
2. Physician National Interest Waiver (PNIW): This is available to physicians who agree to work in designated geographic areas or government medical facilities recognized by the U.S. government as having a shortage of healthcare professionals.

The main difference between the EB-2 green card and work visas (such as H1-B visa, L-1 visa, O-1 visa, P-1 visa, TN visa, E-3 visa) is that EB-2 green card holders have the freedom to change jobs and industries without requiring additional approval from the U.S. government. Additionally, unlike work visas, the green card is a permanent visa, meaning that EB-2 green card holders can reside in the United States indefinitely and renew their green card every 10 years without any limitation on the number of renewals.

See also：
United States – EB-2 Visa Application Package (Green Card for Advance Ability Professional) Procedures and Fees