Published AAO appeal decisions

The beneficiary is a boxer and trainer for whom an agent sought O-1A classification. The petitioner claimed membership, original contributions through comparable evidence, and high salary. The AAO dismissed the appeal because membership and contributions were not established, so three criteria were not satisfied, and it reserved the final merits.

An agent petitioned for a master automotive technician and test driver for O-1A extraordinary ability classification. The beneficiary met only the awards criterion. Published material criterion was withdrawn because foreign articles were not shown to be in major media. Judging criterion was withdrawn due to insufficient corroboration. With only one criterion met, the three-criterion threshold was not satisfied.

Tennis coach sponsored by financial services and sports management business for O-1A extraordinary ability visa. Met only one criterion (high salary). AAO affirmed denial, finding USPTA membership and national team participation did not establish extraordinary achievement and comparable evidence insufficient for visa eligibility.

Tennis director: O-1A nonimmigrant extension petition by country club employer. Beneficiary claimed awards, membership, and published material recognition. AAO held awards from collegiate play and professional tournaments not nationally or internationally recognized for excellence; insufficient criteria met.

An equestrian rider sought O-1A extraordinary ability classification. The petitioner submitted ribbons and claimed membership but failed to establish three evidentiary criteria. The AAO found the evidence does not demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim required for extraordinary ability.