Published AAO appeal decisions

A marketing specialist sought EB-2 exceptional ability classification with a national interest waiver. The petitioner claimed five of six exceptional ability criteria on appeal. The AAO found only the degree criterion met, since experience, salary, membership and recognition evidence fell short, and so reserved the Dhanasar analysis and dismissed the appeal.

Marketing administrator sought NIW as EB-2 advanced degree professional. AAO withdrew director's advanced degree determination due to lato sensu MBA lacking master's degree equivalency. On NIW, proposed marketing consulting has substantial merit but lacks national importance; record does not show specific endeavor's prospective impact meets Dhanasar standard.

Marketing entrepreneur seeking EB-2 national interest waiver. Claimed endeavor generates jobs and economic benefits with national importance. AAO agreed substantial merit was established but found no national importance because evidence showed only localized impact to immediate clients without broader field influence.

Communications specialist with advanced degree sought EB-2 national interest waiver. AAO dismissed because petitioner failed to establish national importance of proposed sustainability communications endeavor; industry importance does not substitute for specific endeavor impact.

A marketing and digital strategist sought an EB-2 national interest waiver for music industry work connecting American and Latin American sectors. The AAO found the specific endeavor lacked national importance because it would not extend beyond her clients or substantially impact the entertainment industry broadly.

Marketing manager sought EB-2 with national interest waiver. AAO reversed director's prong-one finding and dismissed, holding endeavor lacked national importance and petitioner not well-positioned. Tourism marketing business lacked evidence of significant U.S. economic impact or field-wide advancement.

Public relations consultant seeking NIW. Claimed substantial merit and national importance of public relations services endeavor. AAO found applicant failed first prong because evidence showed intention to work in field but lacked sufficient documentation of prospective impact rising to national importance level.