Published AAO appeal decisions

A martial artist petitioner sought EB-1A classification. He claimed five criteria but submitted incomplete evidence: award certificates lacked certified translations, published materials were not about him or lacked required information. The AAO found he met none of three required criteria and dismissed the appeal.

A writer, motivational speaker, and magician sought extraordinary ability classification. Petitioner claimed awards and membership but failed to meet initial evidence requirement of one-time major award or at least three of ten criteria. AAO found no nationally or internationally recognized award for excellence and petitioner abandoned membership claim, dismissing appeal for lack of qualifying evidence.

Self-petitioner, luthier, sought EB-1A classification claiming awards and other criteria. AAO dismissed appeal, finding awards lacked national or international recognition, selection criteria were unclear, and petitioner failed to meet the minimum three-criteria threshold for extraordinary ability.

A violinist and instructor sought EB-1A classification claiming five criteria. The AAO dismissed the appeal, finding insufficient evidence of awards and that the other claimed criteria did not meet plain language requirements. Evidence in aggregate failed to demonstrate extraordinary ability.

A printmaker and fine artist sought EB-1A classification claiming five criteria. The AAO found the petitioner failed to submit evidence of a major award or meet at least three criteria. Selection for an exhibition does not constitute a prize or award; separate criteria exist. Appeal dismissed.

Artist and performing arts professional claimed multiple criteria including judging. AAO sustained judging criterion but rejected awards as abandoned, membership without sufficient detail, and commercial success lacking corroboration. Petitioner met only one criterion; failed three-criterion threshold. Appeal dismissed.

Opera singer self-petitioner claimed extraordinary ability in arts under EB-1A, asserting four criteria. AAO found only exhibitions satisfied; awards, published material, and critical role were not met. Aggregate review confirmed lack of requisite expertise level. Appeal dismissed.