EB-1ASports and athleticsEmployerDecided March 2026Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
MAR042026_01B2203
AwardsNot metMembershipNot metPublished materialNot metFinal meritsNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Martial arts academy petitioned for EB-1A extraordinary ability for Muay Thai coach beneficiary. AAO dismissed appeal, finding athlete failed to meet three regulatory criteria required for extraordinary ability. Athletic awards, team affiliations, and media coverage did not establish excellence or acclaim in coaching field specifically.
Official PDF
Official PDF ↗Published by USCIS. The summary is ours, in our own words; the decision text is on uscis.gov.
No criterion in the table was found met in this decision.
What was missing
- Awards · Competitive martial arts athlete awards do not demonstrate excellence in coaching field; lack documented national or international recognition.
- Membership · National team invitation and coaching staff appointment do not constitute membership in associations requiring outstanding achievements judged by recognized experts.
- Published material · Published articles lack required author attribution and publication significance not established; material about athlete not coach.
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Awards | Not met | Competitive martial arts athlete awards do not demonstrate excellence in coaching field; lack documented national or international recognition. |
 Membership | Not met | National team invitation and coaching staff appointment do not constitute membership in associations requiring outstanding achievements judged by recognized experts. |
 Published material | Not met | Published articles lack required author attribution and publication significance not established; material about athlete not coach. |
 Final merits | Not reached / not discussed | Failed initial evidence threshold; final merits determination not reached. |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.