Published AAO appeal decisions

Drilling engineer with advanced degree seeking national interest waiver for EB-2 classification. Petitioner claimed endeavor in oil and gas drilling had national importance. AAO affirmed Director's finding that endeavor had substantial merit but lacked evidence of national importance; general industry importance does not establish specific endeavor's national importance without prospective economic impact data.

Professional auto racing team petitioned for an engineer employed since 2016. Petitioner met three evidentiary criteria but AAO found the totality of evidence insufficient to demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim or position among the very top of the field of automotive engineering.

Mechanical engineer with advanced degree seeking NIW. Proposed endeavor involved high-end engineering work in oil and gas industry. AAO found endeavor has substantial merit but lacks national importance. Impact limited to employer and clients without broader implications for mechanical engineering or oil and gas field. No significant U.S. employment potential shown.