Published AAO appeal decisions

A field engineer and X-ray fluorescence analyst sought a national interest waiver for EB-2 classification. The AAO held that while the proposed research endeavor on petroleum engineering and methane emissions demonstrates substantial merit, it lacks national importance under Dhanasar's first prong, and did not address the remaining prongs.

Petroleum engineer with advanced degree sought EB-2 national interest waiver for work on hydraulic fracturing fluid technologies. Petitioner's endeavor had substantial merit but lacked required national importance. Decision distinguished between employer significance and specific endeavor impact, finding insufficient evidence of prospective impact directly attributable to petitioner's work.

Oil and gas engineer employed by major energy company, seeking EB-2 with national interest waiver. Petitioner claimed work supports energy security and economic growth through efficiency innovations. AAO found working in an important field insufficient; the specific proposed endeavor of continuing employer work lacks defined future aspirations and sufficient national or global implications.

Senior Electrical Test Process Engineer in battery and electrification sector sought NIW for EB-2 classification. Employer demonstrated advanced degree but failed to establish that her specific work on electrical vehicle battery testing had national importance or broader field impact beyond the employer's immediate operations.