EB-2 NIWLife sciences and medicineIndividualDecided January 2021Sustained
Outcome: Sustained
JAN192021_01B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedMetBalance favors a waiverMet
Our summary
An ophthalmology researcher with advanced degrees sought EB-2 with national interest waiver for continued research on retinal diseases and treatments. The AAO sustained appeal, finding all three Dhanasar prongs met: her research has substantial merit and national importance, she is well positioned to advance it, and her contributions benefit the United States.
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 · Ophthalmology research on retinal diseases and treatment advances with widespread medical community interest and application.
- Well positioned · Advanced degrees, numerous peer-reviewed publications, strong reference letters, clinical history, and ongoing research position demonstrate capability to advance endeavor.
- Balance favors a waiver · Petitioner's significant research contributions and track record benefit United States; value outweighs availability of other qualified workers.
What was missing
Every criterion in the table was found met.
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | Ophthalmology research on retinal diseases and treatment advances with widespread medical community interest and application. |
 Well positioned | Met | Advanced degrees, numerous peer-reviewed publications, strong reference letters, clinical history, and ongoing research position demonstrate capability to advance endeavor. |
 Balance favors a waiver | Met | Petitioner's significant research contributions and track record benefit United States; value outweighs availability of other qualified workers. |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.