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EB-1AFilm, music, performing artsIndividualDecided 2016Dismissed

Outcome: Dismissed

AUG112016_01B2203

AwardsMetExhibitionsMetJudgingMetFinal meritsNot met

Our summary

An opera soprano sought EB-1A classification as an artist of extraordinary ability. She satisfied three initial criteria: awards, judging, and exhibitions. However, the AAO found she failed the final merits determination, lacking the sustained national or international acclaim necessary to demonstrate she is among the small percentage at the very top of her field.

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

  • Awards · Third place prize in nationally recognized vocal competition; satisfied plain language requirement
  • Exhibitions · Concert performances constituted artistic displays satisfying plain language requirement
  • Judging · Membership on board of judges for 2011 competition satisfied criterion

What was missing

  • Final merits · Evidence showed potential rather than sustained national or international acclaim at top of field

Criteria

CriterionReadingWhy
AwardsMetThird place prize in nationally recognized vocal competition; satisfied plain language requirement
ExhibitionsMetConcert performances constituted artistic displays satisfying plain language requirement
JudgingMetMembership on board of judges for 2011 competition satisfied criterion
Final meritsNot metEvidence showed potential rather than sustained national or international acclaim at top of field

A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.

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