Published AAO appeal decisions

Martial arts academy petitioned for taekwondo instructor under O-1A. Director found beneficiary lacks sustained national or international acclaim and failed at least three of eight evidentiary criteria. AAO dismissed, holding beneficiary is skilled athlete but did not establish extraordinary ability as coach.

Gymnastics club petitioned for O-1A visa for foreign gymnastics coach. AAO held beneficiary lacked major internationally recognized award and failed to satisfy at least three evidentiary criteria; prior athletic acclaim insufficient without demonstrating sustained coaching-level extraordinary ability.

Boxing and fitness facility petitioned for professional boxer under O-1A extraordinary ability classification. AAO found beneficiary did not satisfy initial evidentiary requirements, meeting none of eight regulatory criteria; evidence showed skill but not sustained national or international acclaim required for O-1A.