EB-1AArts, design, architectureIndividualDecided April 2025Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
APR102025_02B2203
ExhibitionsNot metOriginal contributionsNot metPublished materialNot metJudgingClaimed, not analyzedLeading or critical roleClaimed, not analyzedMembershipClaimed, not analyzedFinal meritsNot met
Our summary
Hairstylist seeking EB-1A classification based on extraordinary ability. Claimed six criteria across salon work and styling innovation. AAO dismissed because petitioner satisfied fewer than three criteria; evidence concentrated in short time period and limited geography without sustained national or international recognition.
Official PDF
Official PDF ↗Published by USCIS. The summary is ours, in our own words; the decision text is on uscis.gov.
No criterion in the table was found met in this decision.
What was missing
- Exhibitions · Event at salon where petitioner worked not demonstrated to be artistic exhibition or showcase.
- Original contributions · Techniques learned in training course, not developed independently; no evidence of wide adoption by others in field.
- Published material · Articles lack authorship attribution and appear promotional; origin unclear and probative value minimal.
- Final merits · Evidence limited to brief 2021 timeframe and Florida region; lacks sustained national or international acclaim required.
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Exhibitions | Not met | Event at salon where petitioner worked not demonstrated to be artistic exhibition or showcase. |
 Original contributions | Not met | Techniques learned in training course, not developed independently; no evidence of wide adoption by others in field. |
 Published material | Not met | Articles lack authorship attribution and appear promotional; origin unclear and probative value minimal. |
 Judging | Claimed, not analyzed | Claimed on appeal after RFE; Director declined to consider evidence; petitioner waived appeal argument. |
 Leading or critical role | Claimed, not analyzed | Claimed on appeal after RFE; Director declined to consider evidence; petitioner waived appeal argument. |
 Membership | Claimed, not analyzed | Claimed initially but not addressed in decision as meeting or failing criterion; no finding. |
 Final merits | Not met | Evidence limited to brief 2021 timeframe and Florida region; lacks sustained national or international acclaim required. |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.