Airport operations specialist sought EB-2 NIW classification. Service center found him ineligible for advanced degree category due to less than three years post-degree work experience. AAO upheld denial and held petitioner failed to meet exceptional ability criteria and Dhanasar's first prong, lacking sufficient evidence of expertise, employment history, and national importance of proposed endeavor.

Self-petitioner aspiring franchise broker sought EB-2 NIW. Claimed experience in automotive repair and past franchisee involvement qualified him to operate franchise brokerage targeting foreign investors. AAO held proposed endeavor lacked sufficient evidence of national importance; petitioner's niche background did not demonstrate positioning to advance multi-industry franchise brokerage.

AI researcher sought EB-2 NIW classification claiming exceptional ability. AAO dismissed appeal, finding petitioner met only two of three required criteria for exceptional ability: official academic record and professional association membership, but not recognition for achievements and significant contributions in AI field.

Taekwondo athlete and coach claiming NIW under EB-2. Petitioner asserted exceptional ability under multiple criteria; Director found only one met. On appeal, insufficient arguments and evidence to overcome exceptional ability finding. NIW claim failed at first Dhanasar prong: proposed endeavor lacks national importance. Appeal dismissed.