Date of Decision: September 23, 2015
Service Center: Texas Service Center
Form Type: Form I-140
Case Type: EB1 Extraordinary Ability
Petitioner Information
Profession: Photographer
Field: Arts
Nationality: Not specified
Summary of Decision
Initial Decision: Denied
Appeal Outcome: Approved
Evidentiary Criteria Analysis
Criteria Met
Documentation of the alien’s receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in the field of endeavor:
The Petitioner submitted evidence of receiving the top award in the “Words & Pictures” category for an article published in a recognized publication. This award is acknowledged as a lesser nationally or internationally recognized prize for excellence.
Published material about the alien in professional or major trade publications or other major media relating to the alien’s work in the field for which classification is sought:
The Petitioner provided documentation of published material about him in major trade publications and media, highlighting his work in photography.
Evidence of the alien’s participation, either individually or on a panel, as a judge of the work of others in the same or an allied field of specification for which classification is sought:
The Petitioner served as a judge for photography competitions, including the Mobile Photography Awards.
Evidence of the display of the alien’s work in the field at artistic exhibitions or showcases:
The Petitioner displayed his work at various artistic exhibitions, including notable showcases in Canada.
Criteria Not Met
None specified as not met within the provided document.
Key Points from the Decision
Awards and Prizes Won
The Petitioner received a top award in the “Words & Pictures” category, which is recognized as a nationally and internationally acknowledged award for excellence.
Published Materials About the Petitioner
The Petitioner was featured in major trade publications and other significant media outlets, underscoring his recognition in the field of photography.
Original Contributions of Major Significance
No specific details provided in the summary.
Participation as a Judge
The Petitioner judged photography competitions, confirming his recognized expertise in the field.
Membership in Associations
Not detailed in the provided document.
Authorship of Scholarly Articles
Not detailed in the provided document.
Leading or Critical Role Performed
Not detailed in the provided document.
Artistic Exhibitions or Showcases
The Petitioner exhibited his work in international venues, demonstrating recognition and acclaim in the arts.
Evidence of High Salary or Remuneration
Not detailed in the provided document.
Commercial Successes in the Performing Arts
Not detailed in the provided document.
Supporting Documentation
- Award Certificates: Documentation of the Petitioner receiving top awards in recognized categories.
- Published Articles: Copies of articles and features about the Petitioner in major media.
- Judging Participation: Evidence of the Petitioner serving as a judge in photography competitions.
- Exhibition Records: Records of the Petitioner’s work being displayed at international exhibitions.
Conclusion
Final Determination: Approved
Reasoning: The Petitioner demonstrated sustained national and international acclaim in the field of photography, satisfying the requirements for extraordinary ability classification.
Next Steps: The Petitioner should continue to pursue opportunities in the United States, leveraging the approved classification to enhance his career and benefit the U.S. photography community.
