A singer self-petitioned for EB-1A extraordinary ability, claiming five criteria. The AAO dismissed, finding he met none: awards lacked national recognition, membership not established, published material insufficient and post-dated filing, and judging and contributions claims waived. Overall evidence insufficient for sustained national acclaim.

A senior director of product management met three of ten EB-1A criteria (judging, scholarly articles, leading role). However, the AAO upheld dismissal on final merits, holding the record demonstrates some field recognition but fails to show sustained national or international acclaim required for extraordinary ability at the very top.

Filmmaker petitioner claimed extraordinary ability based on film awards and Emmy judging. AAO held neither criterion met: festival prizes lack major international recognition required, and Emmy judging is separate regulatory criterion not claimed initially. Evidence of one successful film insufficient for sustained top-level acclaim.

Soccer player petitioner claimed extraordinary ability based on youth and amateur tournament awards. AAO held awards from amateur and youth competitions do not demonstrate sustained acclaim at very top of professional field. Evidence insufficient to establish petitioner among small percentage at top.