Published AAO appeal decisions

Self-petitioner seeks EB-1A classification as a model. Claimed lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes. AAO found the competition not nationally or internationally recognized and did not establish sustained national or international acclaim or place among very top in field.

The petitioner is a tennis coach and former competitive player who sought extraordinary ability classification in athletics. The petitioner was found not to hold a major award, and the lesser-awards criterion was analyzed and rejected. The AAO dismissed the appeal because the evidence did not show sustained acclaim at the very top.

Boxer self-petitioner claimed extraordinary ability based on a third-prize award from an international boxing tournament. AAO found the award lacked sufficient documentation of national or international recognition and dismissed the appeal because evidence did not show sustained acclaim at the very top of the field.

Self-petitioner in athletics claims extraordinary ability based on world karate title from 1993. AAO found the award does not meet the narrow threshold for a major internationally recognized award and the evidence does not establish sustained national or international acclaim required for EB-1A classification.

Athlete in women's football claiming extraordinary ability in athletics. Submitted finalist designation for NWFA Defensive Player of the Year. AAO found no evidence of actual award receipt and determined the designation, while honorable, does not constitute nationally or internationally recognized award. Appeal dismissed.

A taekwondo athlete and instructor sought EB-1A classification. The AAO found that participation certificates and recognition awards did not meet the regulatory requirement for major internationally recognized awards, and the overall evidence did not demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim or placement at the very top of the field.