EB-2 NIWCivil and environmental engineeringEmployerDecided November 2025Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
NOV242025_05B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Graduate student researcher in structural engineering sought EB-2 NIW for developing sustainable concrete materials and construction methods. AAO found proposed endeavor had substantial merit and national importance, but petitioner failed second prong by lacking documented plan, progress, and stakeholder interest to advance the endeavor.
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 · Development of sustainable cementitious materials and construction methodologies has substantial merit and national importance for civil infrastructure
What was missing
- Well positioned · Education and publications were positive but insufficient without demonstrated plan for future activities, progress toward endeavor, or investor interest
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | Development of sustainable cementitious materials and construction methodologies has substantial merit and national importance for civil infrastructure |
 Well positioned | Not met | Education and publications were positive but insufficient without demonstrated plan for future activities, progress toward endeavor, or investor interest |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Second prong failed; third prong not analyzed |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.