Published AAO appeal decisions

Economist with doctorate in economics and finance sought NIW for EB-2 classification. She claimed expertise in economic development and financial analysis. AAO dismissed appeal because she presented inconsistent descriptions of her proposed endeavor and failed to establish its national importance or her capability to advance it.

A tax analyst seeks EB-2 classification with a national interest waiver to operate a tax and financial consulting business in Florida. The AAO affirmed the Director's denial, finding the petitioner well-positioned but failing to establish that the proposed endeavor has substantial merit or national importance, as required under Dhanasar.

Assistant professor of finance seeks national interest waiver for EB-2 based on real estate research. Director found substantial merit but not national importance. AAO reversed, finding research on environmental, social, governance impacts and market solutions has national importance through academic dissemination. Petitioner meets all three Dhanasar prongs.

A banker sought EB-2 classification with national interest waiver for financial advisory work. The AAO found the petitioner failed to establish the first Dhanasar prong by providing only vague possibilities rather than a specific, detailed endeavor with national importance, and failed the second prong.