Published AAO appeal decisions

Civil engineer with two master's degrees sought EB-2 national interest waiver for proposed construction consulting work. Qualifies as advanced degree holder but failed to establish national importance of endeavor. Petitioner showed only localized client benefits without broader field advancement or significant economic impact.

Project engineer sought NIW for EB-2. Service Center approved advanced degree but denied NIW. AAO dismissed because proposed roadway safety endeavor lacked sufficient detail and national importance; no direct connection established between specific endeavor and broader implications.

Civil engineer sought EB-2 national interest waiver for residential construction business venture. Director found petitioner qualified as advanced degree holder but waiver failed. AAO agreed petitioner did not establish national importance under Dhanasar first prong; construction work lacked broader field implications.

Civil engineer pursuing Ph.D. on risk-informed decision-making framework for energy generation claimed three Dhanasar prongs. AAO sustained appeal, finding the proposed research has substantial merit and national importance with broad applications, the petitioner is well positioned by education and track record, and the waiver benefits the United States.

Environmental engineer with Ph.D. sought EB-2 with NIW. Proposed continued research on water quality and waste treatment. AAO sustained appeal, finding all three Dhanasar prongs met: endeavor has substantial merit and national importance, petitioner well positioned to advance research, and on balance waiver benefits the United States.

Civil engineer with doctoral degree seeking EB-2 NIW for infrastructure management research. Petitioner claimed all three Dhanasar prongs. AAO held all three met: research addresses national infrastructure concerns, petitioner is well-positioned through credentials and position, and national benefit from waiver outweighs certification interests.

Architectural drafter sought EB-2 NIW classification. Proposed to work on healthcare facility design and eventually become senior designer. AAO dismissed, holding proposed work lacks national importance; confined to employer projects without demonstrating substantial positive economic effects or broader field impact.