EB-2 NIWComputer science and AIIndividualDecided January 2026Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
JAN072026_05B5203
Merit and national importanceNot metWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Graduate research assistant in cybersecurity sought EB-2 with NIW for autonomous vehicle security research. AAO found substantial merit but dismissed because petitioner failed to establish national importance of specific proposed endeavor or demonstrate being well-positioned to advance it under Dhanasar framework.
Official PDF
Official PDF ↗Published by USCIS. The summary is ours, in our own words; the decision text is on uscis.gov.
No criterion in the table was found met in this decision.
What was missing
- Merit and national importance · Petitioner demonstrated substantial merit of cybersecurity research but failed to show national importance or prospective impact.
- Well positioned · Insufficient evidence of plan, progress, or interest from relevant entities to advance proposed endeavor.
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Not met | Petitioner demonstrated substantial merit of cybersecurity research but failed to show national importance or prospective impact. |
 Well positioned | Not met | Insufficient evidence of plan, progress, or interest from relevant entities to advance proposed endeavor. |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Not reached because first and second prongs failed. |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.