AAO research

AAO EB-1A decision APR122021_02B2203: Athletics - Rock Climbing and common pitfalls in professional membership evidence for eb‑1a

When using professional membership to satisfy the EB‑1A membership criterion, you must provide concrete documentation (bylaws, membership standards) that the organization requires outstanding achievement and that its reviewers are recognized experts. Evidence that the USN CA life‑membership requirem

Decision Snapshot

Field Value --- --- Decision ID APR122021_02B2203 Decision date 2021-04-12 Outcome dismissed Field or occupation Athletics - Rock Climbing Final merits discussed No / not stated

Criteria Discussed

  • awards

  • judging

  • membership

  • original_contributions

  • published_material

Criteria Accepted

  • awards

Criteria Rejected

  • judging

  • membership

  • original_contributions

  • published_material

Core Lesson

When using professional membership to satisfy the EB‑1A membership criterion, you must provide concrete documentation (bylaws, membership standards) that the organization requires outstanding achievement and that its reviewers are recognized experts.

Evidence Issue

  • Evidence that the USN CA life‑membership requirement is tied to outstanding achievements.

  • Documentation such as bylaws or constitution showing the membership criteria.

  • Proof that the individuals reviewing membership applications are nationally or internationally recognized experts.

  • Demonstration of major, original contributions of significance to the field.

  • Sufficient published material evidence (AAO withdrew earlier finding).

How This Connects

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Source Note

Non-precedent AAO decisions are used as evidence examples. They are not binding authority and do not predict any individual case.