Published AAO appeal decisions

A geosteering researcher with advanced degree sought national interest waiver of job offer requirement under Dhanasar framework. All three prongs were satisfied: substantial merit and national importance of research improving drilling operations, petitioner well positioned to advance work, and balance favors waiver. Appeal sustained.

A hospitality consultant with over a decade of experience met three initial criteria through awards, original contributions to Chinese hotel industry, and critical roles. The AAO sustained the appeal, finding sustained national acclaim and placement among top field experts by preponderance of evidence.

Assistant professor of neurological surgery sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. Petitioner met three criteria: judging, original contributions, and scholarly articles. On appeal, AAO sustained, finding totality of evidence, including high citation rates and influential publications on deep brain stimulation and anesthesia, demonstrates sustained national and international acclaim among top of field.

Physician researcher in pathology and cellular biology sought EB-2 with national interest waiver for hematological malignancy research. AAO sustained appeal, finding all three Dhanasar prongs met: research has substantial merit and national importance, petitioner well-positioned by experience and publication record, and waiver benefits U.S. healthcare interests.

Professional basketball player sought EB-1A extraordinary ability. Petitioner claimed and met three criteria: awards for national championships and bronze medal, membership in national team, and leading role for distinguished organizations. AAO sustained appeal, finding sustained international acclaim and documentation supporting status among small percentage at field's very top.

A fashion model seeks EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. She claimed multiple criteria; the AAO found three criteria met (published material, exhibitions, high salary) and on final merits concluded the totality of evidence demonstrates sustained international acclaim placing her among the very top of the field.

A violinist met four criteria: awards for first place in international competition, published material in economic media about her win, judging, and leading role with multiple major orchestras. The AAO sustained, finding her international competition success, media coverage, and performances with distinguished orchestras demonstrate sustained acclaim and top-tier status.

An attorney specializing in claims management in the United Kingdom sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. He claimed three criteria: judging, leading role, and published material. The AAO sustained, finding all three criteria met and sustained international acclaim establishing him among the very top in his field.