EB-2 NIWMechanical and aerospace engineeringEmployerDecided June 2026Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
JUN292026_03B5203
Merit and national importanceNot metWell positionedMetBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
A mechanical engineer and project manager with an advanced degree proposed continuing infrastructure work in energy and oil-gas sectors. The AAO found substantial merit but rejected national importance because his work would not extend beyond clients with broader implications, and he made impermissible material changes to his endeavor.
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
- Well positioned · AAO agreed petitioner demonstrated substantial merit and was well-positioned to advance endeavor
What was missing
- Merit and national importance · National importance not established; work limited to clients without broader industry or regional implications
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Not met | National importance not established; work limited to clients without broader industry or regional implications |
 Well positioned | Met | AAO agreed petitioner demonstrated substantial merit and was well-positioned to advance endeavor |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Not analyzed because first prong failed; issue reserved |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.