Published AAO appeal decisions

An embroiderer seeks EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. The petitioner claimed eight of ten regulatory criteria. The AAO dismissed the appeal, finding the petitioner satisfied fewer than three criteria and lacked sustained national or international acclaim required for extraordinary ability.

Jewelry maker claims extraordinary ability in arts. Director found two criteria met; petitioner claimed four additional on appeal. AAO dismissed, rejecting membership, published material, original contributions, and scholarly articles. Record does not demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim or position among top field practitioners.

Tattoo artist and painter claimed seven criteria; Director found three threshold criteria met. AAO sustained appeal, finding at final merits that petitioner achieved sustained national or international acclaim through substantial media presence, large social media following, and documented professional recognition as widely respected artist.

Wedding photographer from South Africa claiming seven evidentiary criteria for EB-1A extraordinary ability. AAO agreed with Director that only two criteria met: judging and exhibitions. Published material, awards, and membership claims failed. Record shows successful photographer with prominent clients but does not establish sustained acclaim required for top of field.

Artist seeking EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. AAO dismissed appeal because she failed to meet at least three evidentiary criteria: awards were not shown to be nationally or internationally recognized, and membership in associations was not conditioned on outstanding achievements as judged by recognized experts.

Visual artist from Venezuela with bachelor's degree in painting. Claimed lesser awards, membership in associations, and published material. Met only two criteria per director; on appeal, awards and membership also rejected as lacking national or international recognition. Appeal dismissed because petitioner failed to meet three criteria threshold and lacked sustained acclaim.