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EB-2 NIWLife sciences and medicineIndividualDecided May 2025Sustained

Outcome: Sustained

MAY082025_04B5203

Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedMetBalance favors a waiverMet

Our summary

A postdoctoral researcher in plant genetics sought EB-2 NIW classification through self-petition. The applicant demonstrated all three Dhanasar prongs: the research on plant resistance has national importance, the researcher has proven expertise and track record, and the U.S. benefits from the advanced STEM work. The appeal was sustained.

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 · Plant genetics research demonstrated substantial merit and national importance with peer-reviewed evidence
  • Well positioned · Advanced STEM degree, track record of successful research, credentials and expertise in field
  • Balance favors a waiver · Contributions of value to U.S. benefit; advanced STEM degree, important research, well positioned

What was missing

Every criterion in the table was found met.

Criteria

CriterionReadingWhy
Merit and national importanceMetPlant genetics research demonstrated substantial merit and national importance with peer-reviewed evidence
Well positionedMetAdvanced STEM degree, track record of successful research, credentials and expertise in field
Balance favors a waiverMetContributions of value to U.S. benefit; advanced STEM degree, important research, well positioned

A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.

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