EB-2 NIWComputer science and AIIndividualDecided December 2025Sustained
Outcome: Sustained
DEC222025_01B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedMetBalance favors a waiverMet
Our summary
A research and design engineer supporting U.S. defense and aerospace industries sought EB-2 national interest waiver. The AAO found his proposed endeavor has national importance, he is well positioned to advance it through relevant education and experience, and the balance favors waiver given strategic national interests.
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 · Research and development in defense, aerospace, and semiconductor industries supports U.S. technological competitiveness and has prospective impact.
- Well positioned · Doctorate and master's degree in relevant fields, experience in government-funded research projects, expertise positions applicant to advance endeavor.
- Balance favors a waiver · Highly specific facts and national security interests in strategic industries outweigh labor certification requirements.
What was missing
Every criterion in the table was found met.
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | Research and development in defense, aerospace, and semiconductor industries supports U.S. technological competitiveness and has prospective impact. |
 Well positioned | Met | Doctorate and master's degree in relevant fields, experience in government-funded research projects, expertise positions applicant to advance endeavor. |
 Balance favors a waiver | Met | Highly specific facts and national security interests in strategic industries outweigh labor certification requirements. |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.