Published AAO appeal decisions

A professional dancer was proposed for O-1B classification as a person of extraordinary ability in the arts, which is outside the O-1A category. The AAO dismissed the appeal. The evidence of lead or starring roles lacked reviews and similar documentation, and the dancer was not shown to be distinguished from other professionals.

A talent management business sought O-1 classification for a singer and performer in the arts, which is not O-1A. The director denied the petition for lack of extraordinary ability evidence and missing contracts and itinerary. The AAO summarily dismissed the appeal because no specific error was identified and no promised brief was filed.

An agent petitioned for an experimental stage and screen actor under the O-1 category for the motion picture and television industry, which is the O-1B arts classification and not O-1A. The AAO dismissed the appeal because fewer than three evidentiary criteria were met and the evidence as a whole fell short.

Singer applying for O-1A visa. Petitioner claimed eligibility under seven criteria but satisfied none of three required. Award received while student not shown open to professionals; wage comparable to average levels in market. Petition fails initial evidentiary threshold. Appeal dismissed.

A pianist sought extraordinary ability classification in the arts after the service center denied the petition and dismissed a motion. The AAO dismissed the appeal, finding the award and contribution evidence insufficient, so fewer than three criteria were satisfied, and the overall record did not show sustained acclaim or top-of-field standing.

Singer and performer sought EB-1A extraordinary ability classification. Petitioner claimed four criteria but failed to meet three-criterion threshold. Award lacked national or international recognition. Final merits review found petitioner did not achieve sustained acclaim or top-tier field status.