Published AAO appeal decisions

Hospital petitions for rehabilitation therapist as EB-1A extraordinary ability individual. Petitioner claimed four of ten criteria. AAO held awards criterion unmet; certificates and scholarships limited to art students not rehabilitation therapy. Membership criterion unmet; honor societies lack required restrictions on outstanding achievements in field. Remaining criteria reserved as unnecessary.

Dentist/orthodontist seeks EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. Submitted evidence of awards, memberships, published materials, and original contributions to field. AAO held petitioner met only one of ten initial criteria (published material); minimum three required. Without major award, insufficient for extraordinary ability.

A board-certified gastroenterologist with 22 years of experience sought extraordinary ability classification. The AAO found he met only two of ten criteria. The appeal was dismissed because he failed to meet the three-criterion threshold required for initial eligibility.

A physician in diagnostic radiology residency seeks EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. The AAO dismissed the appeal, finding only two criteria met and concluding the beneficiary lacks the sustained national or international acclaim required for the small percentage at the very top of the field.

Plastic surgeon claimed extraordinary ability under EB-1A, citing awards, association membership, and professional standing. AAO found he was nominated but did not receive the primary award and failed to establish that his association required outstanding achievements judged by recognized experts. Record lacked evidence of sustained national acclaim requisite for the classification.