Published AAO appeal decisions

A television presenter and actress sought extraordinary ability classification. Although satisfying the display criterion through television and fashion work, she met only one of three required criteria. The AAO affirmed dismissal due to insufficient evidence of sustained acclaim or top-tier standing in the field.

A Turkish filmmaker claimed extraordinary ability through six criteria. Director found three met: awards, judging, and exhibitions. AAO affirmed three criteria were met but found the totality of evidence insufficient for sustained international acclaim and top-of-field status required by statute.

A Latin reggae musician sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. The AAO found he met three initial criteria: published material, judging, and performance displays. However, the final merits determination failed because the petitioner lacked sustained national or international acclaim after his band dissolved in 2012.

A performing artist and actor initially claimed four criteria met but only two were sustained by the AAO: judging and artistic display. The appeals court found the published material criterion unsatisfied due to missing author attribution and unproven media status, leaving insufficient criteria met and no evidence of top-tier acclaim.