EB-2 NIWCivil and environmental engineeringEmployerDecided June 2026Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
JUN302026_02B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
A senior manager of pavements with advanced degree sought national interest waiver for sustainable pavement engineering research. The AAO found the proposed endeavor had substantial merit and national importance but dismissed the appeal because the petitioner failed to demonstrate being well positioned to advance the research through education, skills, and record of success.
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 · Sustainable pavement engineering research with recycled materials has substantial merit and national importance
What was missing
- Well positioned · Education and teaching experience in Philippines insufficient to demonstrate capacity to advance applied research in United States
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | Sustainable pavement engineering research with recycled materials has substantial merit and national importance |
 Well positioned | Not met | Education and teaching experience in Philippines insufficient to demonstrate capacity to advance applied research in United States |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Not reached because petitioner failed second prong |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.