Mental health counselor with advanced degree sought NIW for independent practice. Petitioner argued field importance and her expertise; AAO affirmed denial because proposed solo practice lacked national importance, operating only at individual patient level without business plan, projections, or broader regional or national impact.

Physiotherapist with advanced degree sought EB-2 classification and national interest waiver to establish health and wellness clinic. AAO dismissed appeal, finding petitioner eligible for underlying EB-2 but failed to establish national importance required for waiver under Dhanasar's first prong.

Petitioner with advanced degree proposes data analytics and AI solutions company for healthcare. Claimed national importance via government recognition of AI in healthcare and societal welfare impact. AAO affirmed dismissal; endeavor lacks demonstrable national importance; benefits confined to prospective clients without substantial positive economic effects.

Clinical psychologist and entrepreneur proposing mental health services business claims national importance waiver. AAO found substantial merit but rejected national importance because the endeavor lacks broader field implications, significant job creation, or substantial economic effects beyond direct patients, failing Dhanasar's first prong.