Published AAO appeal decisions

Basketball player with prior acclaim seeks EB-1A as coach. Decision holds petitioner demonstrated extraordinary ability as athlete but failed to show coaching is within area of expertise. Limited coaching experience (three months middle school, camp lectures) insufficient for sustained national or international acclaim in coaching, even considering overall pattern.

Head horse trainer and jumper petitioner claimed extraordinary ability under EB-1A. AAO held petitioner failed to meet three regulatory criteria through objective evidence and instead relied excessively on expert letters. Achievements did not demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim at very top level. Appeal dismissed.

A mass communications educator sought extraordinary ability classification in education. The director denied for lack of continued work in the field. The AAO upheld that, withdrew the director's favorable acclaim finding, and found the claimed criteria unmet and no showing of top-of-field standing, so the appeal was dismissed.

A filmmaker in the arts sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. He claimed awards and critical role criteria through a Grand Prix award and acclaimed directorial and commissioning work. The AAO found the critical role criterion met but awards not met; meeting only one of three required criteria, the petition was denied.

Environmental manager in business sustainability claimed to meet at least three EB-1A criteria. AAO found membership criterion unmet, original contributions and scholarly articles unsupported by extensive documentation, and leading role unestablished. Overall evidence insufficient for extraordinary ability at the top of field.