Date of Decision: JUNE 25, 2019
Service Center: Texas Service Center
Form Type: Form I-140
Case Type: EB1 Extraordinary Ability
Petitioner Information
Profession: Field Hockey Coach
Field: Sports Coaching and Development
Nationality: Irish
Summary of Decision
Initial Decision: Denied
Appeal Outcome: Sustained
Evidentiary Criteria Analysis
Criteria Met:
Published Material: The petitioner submitted an article about his coaching published in the Irish Times, demonstrating recognition in a major publication.
Leading or Critical Role: Evidence of his significant roles in developing national coaching curriculums and enhancing the sport’s profile in Ireland and the U.S. was provided.
High Salary: Documentation from the U.S. Department of Labor confirmed his high salary relative to peers, underlining his top-tier standing in the field.
Criteria Not Met:
The review does not mention specific criteria that were not met, focusing instead on those the petitioner successfully satisfied.
Key Points from the Decision
Published Materials About the Petitioner:
The Irish Times article highlighted his influence in field hockey, emphasizing his role and achievements which are significant in demonstrating his acclaim.
Leading or Critical Role Performed:
The petitioner played a critical role in several prestigious coaching positions in Ireland and the U.S., notably influencing the sport’s development and coaching standards at a national level.
Original Contributions of Major Significance:
His contributions to coaching curriculums and player development programs in Ireland and the U.S. have set high standards internationally, contributing significantly to the sport.
Evidence of High Salary or Remuneration:
His high salary as an associate coach reflects his top-tier status and recognition within the field of field hockey.
Supporting Documentation
The petitioner submitted extensive documentation including published articles, letters from significant organizations in the sports industry, and salary documentation from the U.S. Department of Labor.
Conclusion
Final Determination: The petitioner qualifies for the EB1 extraordinary ability classification based on sustained national and international acclaim and recognition through extensive documentation in the field of field hockey coaching.
Reasoning:
The AAO concluded that the petitioner met the necessary criteria and demonstrated sustained acclaim at the highest levels of his field.
Next Steps:
The petitioner’s visa appeal has been sustained, indicating successful demonstration of extraordinary ability. Further action may involve finalizing visa processing based on this approval.
