EB-2 NIWEducation and academiaIndividualDecided August 2021Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
AUG232021_06B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Urban planning researcher with PhD sought NIW for research in sustainable urban planning and environmental justice. AAO affirmed Director's denial: first prong met but second prong failed because petitioner lacked evidence of success, implementation, or influence in the field despite research experience and publications.
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
- Merit and national importance · Director and AAO agreed proposed research in sustainable urban planning, public health, climate change has substantial merit and national importance
What was missing
- Well positioned · Petitioner lacked demonstrated success or implementation record; letters of support insufficient without evidence of field influence or progress
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | Director and AAO agreed proposed research in sustainable urban planning, public health, climate change has substantial merit and national importance |
 Well positioned | Not met | Petitioner lacked demonstrated success or implementation record; letters of support insufficient without evidence of field influence or progress |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Second prong failed; third prong analysis unnecessary and not reached |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.