EB-2 NIWCivil and environmental engineeringIndividualDecided October 2025Dismissed
Outcome: Dismissed
OCT162025_03B5203
Merit and national importanceMetWell positionedNot metBalance favors a waiverNot reached / not discussed
Our summary
Civil and environmental engineer proposes infrastructure and sustainability research advancement. AAO held first prong met but second prong not met; petitioner's publications and citations lack evidence of implementation, government funding, or demonstrated progress toward advancing the specific proposed 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 · SCOPS and AAO found proposed endeavor in infrastructure and environmental research has substantial merit and potential national importance.
What was missing
- Well positioned · Petitioner lacks record of implementation, funded research, government agency interest, and demonstrated progress; publications and peer recognition insufficient.
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
 Merit and national importance | Met | SCOPS and AAO found proposed endeavor in infrastructure and environmental research has substantial merit and potential national importance. |
 Well positioned | Not met | Petitioner lacks record of implementation, funded research, government agency interest, and demonstrated progress; publications and peer recognition insufficient. |
 Balance favors a waiver | Not reached / not discussed | Not reached because second prong failed; decision reserved this prong. |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.