Published AAO appeal decisions

Self-petitioner artist sought EB-1A classification based on Chinese awards, association membership, and artwork exhibitions. AAO found awards local not international, membership not contingent on achievement, exhibitions unsubstantiated, and compensation unexceptional.

Aerospace engineer claimed extraordinary ability in sciences. Submitted evidence of scholarship award, professional membership, authored works, publications, organizational role, and salary. AAO found petitioner failed to meet three required criteria; scholarship had multiple winners, membership lacked outstanding achievement requirement, scholarly work not documented, salary not shown as high. Appeal dismissed.

Self-petitioner business operations specialist sought extraordinary ability classification. Claimed criteria relating to awards, contributions, and commercial success supported by tenant testimonies and consulate reference. AAO found regulatory criteria applied to business field and petitioner failed to meet any three; letter testimonies insufficient without meeting specific regulatory documentation requirements.

A self-represented artist sought extraordinary ability classification, claiming awards, membership, published material, exhibitions, a leading role and high salary. The AAO dismissed the appeal because no major award or three criteria were shown, and also found no evidence of intent to continue working in the United States.

Self-represented artist claims extraordinary ability through awards, membership, exhibitions, and salary. AAO found awards provincial only, membership inadequate, exhibitions insufficient, and salary unexceptional. Record did not demonstrate sustained acclaim or top-tier status since entering United States in 1999.

Self-represented Georgian folk music performer and teacher claims extraordinary ability but failed to specify which criteria met. AAO found no awards evidence, inadequate published material, insufficient judging, weak original contributions, no exclusive exhibitions, unexceptional salary, and no commercial success documentation. Overall evidence showed talent but not sustained top-tier acclaim.