Financial manager sought EB-2 NIW. AAO held the proposed endeavor lacked national importance because it would not impact the financial field broadly and lacked significant potential for U.S. employment or substantial economic effects. Appeal dismissed.

Financial manager with advanced degree sought NIW for employment in banking sector with proposed use of blockchain and AI technologies. AAO found substantial merit in the field but concluded the petitioner failed to demonstrate national importance of her specific endeavor, lacking evidence of broader industry impact, employment potential, or substantial economic effects.

A chemical engineer sought EB-2 classification with national interest waiver. The AAO found the petitioner did not establish eligibility for the underlying EB-2 advanced degree or exceptional ability classification because the record lacked evidence of requisite academic credentials and progressive employment experience, making the waiver issue moot.

Economist self-petitioner sought EB-2 NIW for economic policy work. Director approved underlying EB-2 but denied NIW on national importance. AAO agreed; petitioner failed to submit documentary evidence that specific work would impact field broadly or have national importance beyond employer.