Published AAO appeal decisions

A tennis player transitioning to coaching sought EB-1A status. Although the AAO found she met the awards criterion, the final merits analysis concluded her evidence of sustained acclaim in coaching did not reach the top-tier level required.

Crew chief and lead mechanic in auto racing claimed extraordinary ability and at least three criteria. AAO found award documentation did not establish national or international recognition and evidence did not demonstrate sustained acclaim at top of field. Appeal dismissed.

A taekwondo athlete sought EB-1A classification. The AAO held that submitted awards, though earned through ITF Black Belt standards, lacked evidence of national or international recognition beyond the presenting organizations. The overall evidence failed to demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim or placement at the very top of the field.

Karate player and instructor claiming extraordinary ability under EB-1A. Petitioner failed to demonstrate awards were nationally or internationally recognized; evidence showed recognition only at individual events. Achievements insufficient to establish extraordinary ability. Appeal dismissed.

Self-petitioner seeks EB-1A as soccer coach. Petitioner's competitive playing career ended in late 1980s and no sustained national or international acclaim shown as coach. AAO found achievements significantly above others in field not demonstrated.

Competitive swimmer claimed three regulatory criteria including awards and sought comparable evidence consideration. AAO dismissed because evidence does not establish that petitioner's achievements set her significantly above almost all others at national or international level.