EB-2 NIWSports and athleticsIndividualDecided May 2026Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
MAY202026_01B5203
Merit and national importanceNot metWell positionedNot reached / not discussedBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Pilot self-petitioner sought NIW under EB-2 as advanced degree professional. AAO dismissed appeal, finding initial endeavor as airline transport pilot lacked national importance, and petitioner materially changed endeavor in response to RFE without establishing broader field implications.
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 · Pilot's proposed endeavor lacked national importance; material changes to endeavor definition; basic economic activity insufficient for broad implications.
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Not met | Pilot's proposed endeavor lacked national importance; material changes to endeavor definition; basic economic activity insufficient for broad implications. |
 Well positioned | Not reached / not discussed | First prong failed; no need to address remaining prongs. |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | First prong failed; no need to address remaining prongs. |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.