The O-1 nonimmigrant visa is intended for people with exceptional talent in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, as well as those who have a track record of extraordinary success in the film or television industries and have received national or international recognition for their accomplishments.
What is meant by “extraordinary ability”?
It denotes a level of knowledge showing that you are one of the small fraction of people who have attained the very top of your field in the disciplines of science, education, business, or athletics.
Classifications:
O-1A: Individuals with an extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics (not including the arts, motion pictures or television industry);
O-1B: Individuals with an extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in motion picture or television industry;
O-2: Individuals who will accompany an O-1 artist or athlete to assist in a specific event or performance; and
O-3: Individuals who are the spouse or children of O-1 and O-2 visa holders.
Eligibility
You must be able to support at least three of the following claims with sufficient evidence:
- Has won honors or awards for achievement in their field at the national or international level.
- membership in organizations that require exceptional performance as determined by nationally or internationally renowned experts in the relevant discipline.
- Their work has appeared in reputable trade periodicals, professional publications, and mass media.
- The candidate has experience judging others in the same (or a nearly related field) in some position. Either individually or as a member of a judging panel, this is possible.
- Have pieces that have appeared in reputable or professional trade magazines.
- Have made significant original contributions to their field’s science, education, or business.
- Have worked for reputable companies or institutions in a managerial or crucial role.
- Obtain a high wage or payment for their services.
- Other pertinent examples of outstanding competence that do not meet the requirements listed above.
Application Procedure
- If you have exceptional talent in the arts, sciences, education, business, or athletics, you can apply for an O-1A visa.
- If you have exceptional artistic talent or excellent success in the film or television industries, you may be eligible to apply for an O-1B visa.
Basic Steps
- On your behalf, your employer submits a petition to the USCIS.
- Form DS-160 is submitted. Anyone who requests a US visa must submit this computerized application form.
- The O1 visa fees are paid by you.
- You make an appointment with the closest US mission for a visa interview.
- Assemble the necessary paperwork.
- Attend the interview at the US Consulate or Embassy and provide the paperwork.
Processing Time
It could take 2-3 months for USCIS to process your completed application.
Validity
The O-1 is good for three years in total. In some instances, the visa may only be issued to cover a single event, production, or activity and may only be valid for a brief period of time. Extensions for O1 visas are available in 1-year increments, and the number of extensions is unrestricted. To be eligible for an extension, the O1 visa holder must demonstrate that they will remain in the same role or pursuit.
Bringing your family
Your spouse and dependent children may be able to apply for an O-3 nonimmigrant visa if you bring them along with you or if they join you later. However, they will be subject to the same admission requirements and time restrictions as you. While they are not allowed to work in the country, O-3 visa holders are allowed to take part in full- or part-time education.