EB-1AComputer science and AIIndividualDecided April 2026Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
APR152026_03B2203
JudgingMetPublished materialMetOriginal contributionsNot metFinal meritsNot met
Our summary
An AI researcher with a Ph.D. in theoretical physics sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. She met initial evidence requirements in three criteria but failed the original contributions prong on closer review; citations alone were insufficient proof of major significance. The AAO found the record lacked evidence of sustained national or international acclaim required for the visa.
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
- Judging · Service center found criterion met; AAO did not disturb this finding
- Published material · Service center found criterion met; AAO did not disturb this finding
What was missing
- Original contributions · Citation counts alone insufficient; no evidence work impacts particle physics or AI field at required level
- Final merits · Lacks sustained national or international acclaim or status among small percentage at field top
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Judging | Met | Service center found criterion met; AAO did not disturb this finding |
 Published material | Met | Service center found criterion met; AAO did not disturb this finding |
 Original contributions | Not met | Citation counts alone insufficient; no evidence work impacts particle physics or AI field at required level |
 Final merits | Not met | Lacks sustained national or international acclaim or status among small percentage at field top |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.