Published AAO appeal decisions

Traditional Indian tabla musician sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. AAO found no criteria met: awards lack documented significance, memberships do not require outstanding achievement, no national media coverage, insufficient documentation of influence or acclaim, and no evidence of top national performances or commercial success.

A former member of a Taiwanese pop band and photographer claimed EB-1A criteria based on 1980s-1990s fame. The AAO found he met only one criterion. His past pop music acclaim was not sustained through subsequent television, acting or photography work. Untranslated media articles could not be considered, and commercial success claims lacked corroboration.

Singer claimed extraordinary ability in arts through 1986 international award, lesser prizes, and media mentions. Decision found limited success during 1986–1988 but no sustained national or international acclaim at field's apex. Multiple criteria unmet; petition dismissed.

A development and publicity consultant and independent producer for television and film sought extraordinary ability classification, claiming eight criteria. The AAO accepted two as met but found the rest unmet, so fewer than three were satisfied. It also found no sustained acclaim or top-of-field standing, and dismissed the appeal.

A musician sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. The petitioner claimed multiple criteria including awards, membership, published material, and others. The AAO found only two criteria met, below the required three-criterion threshold, and concluded the evidence does not demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim or placement in the small percentage at the top.

Peking Opera performing artist sought extraordinary ability classification. AAO found awards absent, membership local-only, publications dated with juvenile descriptions, and exhibitions criterion inapplicable to performers. Petitioner failed to meet three criteria and lacked evidence of sustained national acclaim or clear intent to continue performing in the United States.

Acrobatic performer claimed extraordinary ability through awards, publications, and original contributions. AAO found awards not nationally recognized, publications lacked major-media status, but original contribution criterion met through evidence of innovative style. Overall record failed to meet three-criterion threshold or demonstrate sustained international acclaim at highest level.

Russian performer claiming extraordinary ability in theater and music. AAO found awards met one criterion but published material and critical role claims failed; local media coverage insufficient. Evidence did not establish sustained national or international acclaim at top level despite awards.