Published AAO appeal decisions

A ballroom dance academy petitioned to classify a ballroom dance teacher as O-1A extraordinary ability. The petition was originally approved but revoked due to procedural error: the beneficiary changed employers without filing a new petition, merely amending the prior one. The AAO upheld revocation because regulations require a new petition, not an amendment, for employer changes.

Restaurant petitioned for executive chef's O-1A classification. AAO dismissed motion to reconsider, holding petitioner failed to raise new legal or factual grounds and repeated prior arguments without addressing erroneous application of law.

An art studio sought O-1A nonimmigrant classification for an art director in motion pictures or television. Petition failed mandatory consultation requirement: lacking written advisory opinions from DGA union and AMPTP management organization. Petitioner presented evidence for first time on appeal after RFE, which was not considered. Appeal dismissed without addressing extraordinary achievement criteria.

Restaurant petitioned for O-1A classification for executive chef of extraordinary ability. AAO dismissed appeal because beneficiary failed to demonstrate nomination for significant awards or at least three of six regulatory criteria; evidence of participation in distinguished productions and published recognition was insufficient.