EB-1AArts, design, architectureIndividualDecided 2019Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
APR082019_01B2203
ExhibitionsMetAwardsNot metOriginal contributionsNot metPublished materialNot metFinal meritsNot met
Our summary
A photographer seeking EB-1A extraordinary ability classification claimed four criteria: published material, media coverage, original contributions, and exhibitions. The AAO found only exhibitions established and rejected the others for lack of major significance, insufficient publication credentials, and absence of evidence showing sustained national or international acclaim or placement among the very top.
Official PDF
Official PDF ↗Published by USCIS. The summary is ours, in our own words; the decision text is on uscis.gov.
What the AAO accepted
- Exhibitions · Director found petitioner met display criterion
What was missing
- Awards · No major, internationally recognized award established
- Original contributions · Field does not recognize work as of major significance; no sustained national or international acclaim shown
- Published material · Publications lack author attribution; insufficient circulation and viewership metrics
- Final merits · Record does not demonstrate sustained acclaim or position among very top of field
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Exhibitions | Met | Director found petitioner met display criterion |
 Awards | Not met | No major, internationally recognized award established |
 Original contributions | Not met | Field does not recognize work as of major significance; no sustained national or international acclaim shown |
 Published material | Not met | Publications lack author attribution; insufficient circulation and viewership metrics |
 Final merits | Not met | Record does not demonstrate sustained acclaim or position among very top of field |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.