Published AAO appeal decisions

The beneficiary is a boxer and trainer for whom an agent sought O-1A classification. The petitioner claimed membership, original contributions through comparable evidence, and high salary. The AAO dismissed the appeal because membership and contributions were not established, so three criteria were not satisfied, and it reserved the final merits.

Aquatic coach and instructor claiming EB-1A extraordinary ability in athletics. AAO affirmed denial, finding applicant failed to satisfy three required alternate criteria and lacks sustained national or international acclaim demonstrating extraordinary ability among the very top of field.

An MMA lightweight fighter sought EB-1A classification claiming a major international award and multiple alternate criteria. The AAO found the petitioner met published material and high salary criteria but lacked the major international award and failed to establish sustained national or international acclaim required for extraordinary ability.

Athlete seeking EB-1A extraordinary ability classification met one of ten criteria but failed to demonstrate at least three. AAO held petitioner did not show sustained national or international acclaim or comparable evidence meeting regulatory standards; major league performance alone insufficient.