Published AAO appeal decisions

Author sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. AAO dismissed, finding petitioner satisfied fewer than three initial regulatory criteria; withdrew published material finding and rejected high salary claim, concluding overall record lacks evidence of sustained acclaim required for top-tier classification.

Stage construction and engineering professional sought EB-1A extraordinary ability for art, theatre, and film work. AAO held three criteria satisfied (published material, judging, leading roles) but record failed to demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim required for extraordinary ability classification.

An omakase chef sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. The AAO found the petitioner met two initial criteria but failed to demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim; Michelin recognition was local, not national, and did not establish extraordinary ability among the very top.

A video game production company sought EB-1A classification for an environment concept art lead. The petitioner claimed five criteria on appeal. The AAO found only the critical role criterion met. Insufficient evidence of three required criteria led the AAO to dismiss the appeal.

Dance studio petitioned for dance instructor beneficiary for O-1A classification. Service center found one criterion met. AAO affirmed that beneficiary met only one criterion and rejected original contributions claim based on lack of evidence of major significance. Petition dismissed as beneficiary failed to satisfy three-criterion requirement.

A pastry chef sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. The petitioner claimed six evidentiary criteria beyond the one initially found met by the director. The AAO dismissed the appeal, finding the petitioner satisfied only one criterion when at least three were required, and lacked sustained national or international acclaim.

Model sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. AAO found petitioner met display and judging criteria but failed to satisfy published material and high salary criteria. Record lacked evidence of sustained national or international acclaim required for classification among small percentage at top of field.

Interior design firm petitioned for founder/principal designer claiming EB-1A extraordinary ability. Met no initial three criteria: awards, judging, original contributions, and salary all failed. Prior O-1B approvals did not override stricter immigrant standards. Final merits analysis found insufficient acclaim for top percentage status.

A talent agency petitioned for O-1A classification of a photographer claiming extraordinary ability. The applicant failed to meet the evidentiary criteria: published material lacked proper documentation and major publication status, and critical recognition letters came from non-photography experts. The appeal was dismissed.

Executive sous chef in O-1 visa status sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. AAO dismissed appeal because petitioner met none of three analyzed criteria: published material lacked evidence of being about him, high salary fell below top earners, and evidence insufficient for leading or critical role finding.