Date of Decision: December 3, 2024
Service Center: Nebraska Service Center
Form Type: Form I-140
Case Type: EB-1 Extraordinary Ability
Petitioner Information
Profession: Soccer Coach
Field: Athletics – Coaching and Player Development
Nationality: Not specified in the document
Summary of Decision
Initial Decision: Denied
Appeal Outcome: Dismissed
Evidentiary Criteria Analysis
The petitioner sought to demonstrate eligibility under 8 C.F.R. § 204.5(h)(3) by satisfying at least three of the ten regulatory criteria. Upon review, the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) determined that the petitioner failed to meet the required three criteria, and the appeal was dismissed.
Criteria Not Met:
- Lesser Nationally or Internationally Recognized Prizes or Awards:
- The petitioner claimed eligibility based on awards received by players coached by the beneficiary and his team’s achievements. However, the AAO determined that these awards were not directly bestowed upon the beneficiary and therefore did not satisfy the criterion.
- Membership in Associations:
- Membership in the Football Association Coaches’ Club was cited. However, the requirements for membership, such as basic coaching certifications, were insufficient to demonstrate outstanding achievements judged by national or international experts.
- Published Material About the Petitioner:
- Articles about the petitioner were submitted, but they failed to establish publication in professional or major trade publications, as required by the regulations.
Key Points from the Decision
Awards Evidence:
- The awards referenced were for players or teams associated with the petitioner but were not directly granted to him.
Membership Evidence:
- Membership requirements for the Football Association Coaches’ Club did not include a judgment of outstanding achievements by recognized experts.
Published Material:
- Submitted articles lacked evidence of publication in major trade or professional media and failed to meet regulatory requirements.
Final Merits Determination:
- The AAO concluded that the petitioner did not demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim or evidence placing him among the very top of his field.
Supporting Documentation
Awards Evidence: Certificates and mentions of team or player achievements not directly awarded to the petitioner.
Membership Evidence: Documentation of association membership requirements, which failed to meet regulatory standards.
Published Material: Articles lacking evidence of major trade or professional media publication.
Conclusion
Final Determination: The appeal was dismissed.
Reasoning:
The petitioner failed to meet the evidentiary requirements for at least three regulatory criteria under 8 C.F.R. § 204.5(h)(3). The evidence did not establish sustained national or international acclaim or position the petitioner among the very top of his field.
