EB-2 NIWComputer science and AIIndividualDecided March 2026Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
MAR242026_04B5203
Merit and national importanceNot metWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
A systems engineer sought NIW to design cybersecurity frameworks for U.S. energy and oil-gas infrastructure. The AAO dismissed the appeal, finding the proposed endeavor scope too broadly defined and implausible, and that general cybersecurity importance did not establish the specific endeavor's national importance.
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
- Merit and national importance · Proposed cybersecurity framework for energy grid lacks demonstrated national importance; general industry importance insufficient without specific endeavor evidence
- Well positioned · Proposed endeavor scope too broad and implausible given petitioner's background and resources
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Not met | Proposed cybersecurity framework for energy grid lacks demonstrated national importance; general industry importance insufficient without specific endeavor evidence |
 Well positioned | Not met | Proposed endeavor scope too broad and implausible given petitioner's background and resources |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Not reached because first and second prongs failed |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.