EB-2 NIWLife sciences and medicineIndividualDecided 2026Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
JUL092026_02B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
A postdoctoral researcher in public health sought NIW for work on drug-resistant diseases. The AAO found the endeavor nationally important but dismissed the appeal because the petitioner lacked a doctoral degree and had not demonstrated concrete plans, progress, or relevant funding to advance the work.
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 · Decision found endeavor addressing drug-resistant TB, HIV, COVID-19 has substantial merit and national importance
What was missing
- Well positioned · Lacks doctoral degree required for postdoctoral researcher role; insufficient evidence of plan, progress, or relevant funding
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | Decision found endeavor addressing drug-resistant TB, HIV, COVID-19 has substantial merit and national importance |
 Well positioned | Not met | Lacks doctoral degree required for postdoctoral researcher role; insufficient evidence of plan, progress, or relevant funding |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Not reached because second prong failed |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.