your case is a good one

I believe your case is a pretty strong one, actually. However it really depends on how you present your case. There is nothing called "Local" if you could make good arguments.

Pennsylvania Ave. (where White House is located) is a local street in Washington DC. Say you have done some planning on the development of that street. Can the immigration officer challenge you that your contribution is "local"?

Focus on your OWN excellent work (paper etc.) and your significant contributions to the US, instead of the company.

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