AAO Decisions Explorer · Free
Published AAO appeal decisions
Search the decisions the Administrative Appeals Office has published, narrow them by visa, criterion, field and year, and read our summary of each one with a link to the official PDF.

Decisions in the library
6,586
6,586 classified
Visa types
3
Years covered
2005-2026
Latest decision
Aug 31, 2026
Filters
5 decisions
Outcomes in these results
- Dismissed
- Remanded
- Sustained
- EB-1AFilm, music, performing artsSep 2021Dismissed
Film actress sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. Petitioner claimed awards, published media, exhibitions, critical roles, and commercial success. AAO found only two criteria met and rejected others; determined petitioner lacks sustained acclaim and does not rank among the very top of the field.
1 of 11 criteria metRead → - EB-1AFilm, music, performing artsApr 2021Dismissed
Collaborative pianist enrolled in doctoral program claims EB-1A extraordinary ability. Director found two criteria met; petitioner appealed claiming two additional criteria. AAO rejected both new claims. With only two criteria met, petitioner failed initial evidence requirement. Appeal dismissed.
1 of 8 criteria metRead → - EB-1AFilm, music, performing artsApr 2021Dismissed
An actress and model claimed six EB-1A criteria. The AAO found she met only the judging criterion and dismissed her appeal, concluding she failed to demonstrate extraordinary ability through sustained national or international acclaim as required for this highly restrictive classification.
1 of 8 criteria metRead → - EB-1AFilm, music, performing artsMar 2021Dismissed
A television and motion picture production professional claimed four additional criteria beyond the one met criterion. The AAO dismissed because she failed to satisfy three criteria and lacked evidence of sustained national acclaim or top-tier standing in film and television production.
1 of 11 criteria metRead → - EB-1AFilm, music, performing artsMar 2021Dismissed
An actor seeks extraordinary ability classification. She claims seven criteria including published materials, judging, original contributions, exhibitions, and leading roles. AAO found only judging and exhibitions met; two criteria insufficient. Petitioner lacks demonstrated sustained national or international acclaim required for top-tier classification.
2 of 8 criteria metRead →
