Outcome: Sustained
MAY272020_02B2203
Our summary
Documentary portrait photographer sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. AAO found petitioner met four evidentiary criteria and demonstrated sustained international acclaim through critical recognition and exhibitions. Appeal sustained; petitioner qualifies as individual of extraordinary ability.
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
- Awards · Evidence established receipt of nationally recognized awards or prizes in photography.
- Exhibitions · Photographic work displayed in artistic exhibitions nationally and internationally since 2002.
- Original contributions · Director's initial rejection of this criterion reversed; evidence supports original contributions of major significance.
- Published material · Work published in professional or major media outlets.
- Final merits · Totality of evidence demonstrates sustained national and international acclaim and placement among small percentage at top of field.
What was missing
Every criterion in the table was found met.
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Met | Evidence established receipt of nationally recognized awards or prizes in photography. | |
| Met | Photographic work displayed in artistic exhibitions nationally and internationally since 2002. | |
| Met | Director's initial rejection of this criterion reversed; evidence supports original contributions of major significance. | |
| Met | Work published in professional or major media outlets. | |
| Met | Totality of evidence demonstrates sustained national and international acclaim and placement among small percentage at top of field. |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.
