AAO Decisions Explorer · Free
Published AAO appeal decisions
Search the decisions the Administrative Appeals Office has published, narrow them by visa, criterion, field and year, and read our summary of each one with a link to the official PDF.

Decisions in the library
6,586
6,586 classified
Visa types
3
Years covered
2005-2026
Latest decision
Aug 31, 2026
Filters
11 decisions
Outcomes in these results
- Dismissed
- Remanded
- Sustained
- O-1AArts, design, architecture2018Dismissed
Dismissed · 5 criteria reviewed0 of 5 criteria metRead → - O-1ASports and athletics2018Dismissed
Dismissed · 6 criteria reviewed2 of 6 criteria metRead → - O-1AFilm, music, performing arts2018Dismissed
A music production studio petitioned for a composer under O-1, first framed as extraordinary achievement in motion pictures and television, then claimed on appeal as extraordinary ability in the arts. The AAO dismissed the appeal because three criteria were not met and the required management organization consultation was missing.
Read → - O-1AArts, design, architecture2018Dismissed
Animation designer sought O-1A extraordinary ability classification for nonimmigrant employment extension. Petitioner claimed significant awards and alternative criteria but AAO found awards insufficiently documented and lacked national/international significance. Insufficient documentation of distinguished productions or other required criteria. Appeal dismissed.
0 of 5 criteria metRead → - O-1AArts, design, architecture2018Dismissed
Dismissed · 3 criteria reviewed0 of 3 criteria metRead → - O-1AArts, design, architecture2018Dismissed
Dismissed · 5 criteria reviewed2 of 5 criteria metRead → - O-1AFilm, music, performing arts2018Dismissed
A fashion model agency petitioned for a model under the O-1 classification for extraordinary ability in the arts. The approved petition was revoked after a support letter proved falsified. The AAO dismissed the appeal because the agency did not resolve the misrepresentation finding, and noted an itinerary concern. This is the arts category, not O-1A.
Read → - O-1AArts, design, architecture2018Dismissed
Dismissed · 5 criteria reviewed0 of 5 criteria metRead → - O-1AArts, design, architecture2018Dismissed
Employer petitioned for pattern maker and fashion designer under O-1A extraordinary ability classification. The AAO summarily dismissed the appeal because the petitioner failed to identify specific erroneous conclusions of law or fact in the service center's denial decision.
Read → - O-1AArts, design, architecture2018Dismissed
A symphony orchestra petitioned to employ a pianist as O-1A nonimmigrant. The petitioner claimed extraordinary ability through awards, lead performer status, published recognition, and commercial success. The AAO found the petitioner failed to demonstrate a significant national or international award and satisfied none of four claimed evidentiary criteria, dismissing the appeal.
0 of 4 criteria metRead → - O-1ABusiness and management2018Dismissed
A mental training company petitioned to employ a life coach for O-1A classification in sciences. The appeal was dismissed because the beneficiary failed to meet the major award criterion and did not satisfy three of eight evidentiary criteria; testimonials and salary evidence lacked required corroboration and specificity.
0 of 8 criteria metRead →
