EB-1AFilm, music, performing artsIndividualDecided December 2019Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
DEC202019_01B2203
Scholarly articlesMetAwardsNot metLeading or critical roleNot metOriginal contributionsNot met
Our summary
A film director and producer claimed four criteria for extraordinary ability. The AAO found only scholarly articles met; awards, original contributions, and leading critical role failed due to insufficient evidence of personal achievement or significant field impact. With one criterion met, appeal dismissed.
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
- Scholarly articles · Published peer-reviewed book and article in university journal
What was missing
- Awards · Did not establish her personal receipt of nationally recognized film or television awards
- Leading or critical role · Insufficient evidence that role was leading or critical; letters merely repeated regulatory language
- Original contributions · Claimed innovative lighting concept lacked specifics and probative support from detailed letters
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Scholarly articles | Met | Published peer-reviewed book and article in university journal |
 Awards | Not met | Did not establish her personal receipt of nationally recognized film or television awards |
 Leading or critical role | Not met | Insufficient evidence that role was leading or critical; letters merely repeated regulatory language |
 Original contributions | Not met | Claimed innovative lighting concept lacked specifics and probative support from detailed letters |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.