Published AAO appeal decisions

A battery test engineer seeks NIW for EB-2 with employer sponsorship to develop lithium battery and soft electronics materials. The AAO found substantial merit but not national importance, as the proposed work's impact is confined to the employer and customers without broader field or economic advancement.

Employer petitioned for materials science researcher seeking EB-1A extraordinary ability. AAO agreed the beneficiary met three initial criteria but dismissed the appeal, finding the final merits analysis showed insufficient sustained national or international acclaim and that the record relied on speculative future accomplishments rather than established current acclaim.

Research scientist in organic chemistry employed at FDA control laboratory sought national interest waiver. AAO sustained appeal: proposed research on reducing chemical waste in wastewater treatment satisfies all three Dhanasar prongs; environmental protection aligns with national security; petitioner well-positioned with doctoral degree and record.