Published AAO appeal decisions

A financial manager sought an EB-2 national interest waiver to work for U.S. companies on restructuring and foreign investment attraction. The AAO dismissed because her proposed endeavor lacked national importance; it would only benefit her employer and clients, not the financial services industry or broader economy.

Teacher seeking EB-2 classification with national interest waiver. Advanced degree and exceptional ability claims both rejected; did not satisfy three criteria required. For NIW, proposed special education work found to lack national importance beyond individual school context. Appeal dismissed.

A patent agent employed in Massachusetts claimed extraordinary ability based on judging, scholarly articles, and original contributions. The AAO found two criteria met but concluded original contributions lacked evidence of major significance despite high-impact publications and citations, falling short of the three-criterion minimum.

Computer scientist employed in data science seeking EB-1A extraordinary ability. AAO affirmed denial because applicant met only one of three required evidentiary criteria. Scholarly articles alone insufficient; no evidence of sustained national or international acclaim or top-tier field placement.

A newspaper petitioned for a graphics and multimedia editor as extraordinary ability alien. Beneficiary claimed awards, published material, original contributions, leading role, and high salary. AAO dismissed, finding no major award and only two criteria met, but three required; work shows team contribution, not individual sustained acclaim at field's top.

Financial trading firm sponsored quantitative researcher for EB-1A extraordinary ability. Director found beneficiary met two of ten criteria. Petitioner claimed two additional criteria on appeal. AAO held petitioner failed to establish three required criteria and lacked sustained national or international acclaim. Appeal dismissed.