Published AAO appeal decisions

Business development executive and entrepreneur in technology-driven fitness and wellness ventures claims extraordinary ability. Petitioner claimed five criteria; Service Center found two met. AAO found three criteria met on de novo review, satisfying initial evidence requirement. Decision remanded for final merits determination on sustained acclaim and top-tier status.

Manufacturing optimization consultant with Brazilian bachelor's degree in industrial engineering claiming five years progressive experience equivalent to master's degree. SCOPS denied without adequately addressing employment letters. AAO remanded for proper analysis of whether petitioner established advanced degree equivalent and, if so, NIW merits.

Economist and former Armenian politician petitioned for EB-1A claiming eight criteria. AAO found three criteria met: published material, scholarly articles, and leading role at organizations. Case remanded for final merits analysis on whether evidence shows sustained acclaim among top percentile in field.

Sales manager seeks national interest waiver for EB-2 classification. AAO withdrew service center decision and remanded for new decision because the original denial lacked sufficient analysis and explanation of how evidence failed to meet Dhanasar prongs; service center provided block quotations without explaining specific deficiencies.

A leadership and organization development specialist sought EB-1A classification. SCOPS denied based on field determination, not evidentiary criteria analysis. The AAO remanded, finding the occupation falls within business and requiring proper evaluation of seven claimed criteria under the correct regulatory framework.

A business administrator sought EB-2 classification as advanced degree professional or person of exceptional ability, plus NIW. SCOPS denied both. The AAO remanded, finding SCOPS misrepresented the record, confused two separate petitions, and did not provide meaningful opportunity to contest. No opinion on ultimate merits.