EB-1AFilm, music, performing artsIndividualDecided November 2020Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
NOV272020_06B2203
ExhibitionsMetJudgingMetPublished materialMetFinal meritsNot met
Our summary
Filmmaker and director sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. Met three initial evidentiary criteria including published material, judging participation, and exhibition of work at film festivals. AAO dismissed appeal holding final merits analysis failed: evidence does not demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim or position among small percentage at top of field.
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
- Exhibitions · Petitioner's films displayed at artistic exhibitions and film festival showcases
- Judging · Petitioner served on juries of several film festivals from 1999 through 2009
- Published material · Director found sufficient published material about petitioner and his work
What was missing
- Final merits · Evidence does not establish sustained national or international acclaim or top-tier status in field despite meeting initial criteria
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Exhibitions | Met | Petitioner's films displayed at artistic exhibitions and film festival showcases |
 Judging | Met | Petitioner served on juries of several film festivals from 1999 through 2009 |
 Published material | Met | Director found sufficient published material about petitioner and his work |
 Final merits | Not met | Evidence does not establish sustained national or international acclaim or top-tier status in field despite meeting initial criteria |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.