O-1 Visa
The O-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa for individuals who possess extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business or athletics, or have a demonstrated record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.
We provide O-1 services to help individuals navigate the complex application process and increase their chances of success. Our team of experienced professionals are dedicated to providing personalized support and guidance to each client, ensuring that their unique talents and achievements are properly showcased in their application.
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Did you know...
Not everyone needs to be a movie star, model or athlete to qualify for the O-1. This category may be an appropriate strategic category for those that may not have the appropriate degree for a TN or perhaps, you qualify for an H-1B but with the H-1B cap, it may not make it feasible to apply for an H-1B. Unlike the H-1B, the O-1 category does not have a cap! This means, if you qualify for this, you may apply for this at any time of the year. Additionally, there are no minimum educational qualifications. If you are seasoned in your field of business and can provide evidence of your achievements, this may be appropriate for you.
Qualifications
Extraordinary ability: The applicant must have extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business or athletics. The applicant or beneficiary needs to demonstrate that they have risen to the top of their field and have national or international recognition for their work.
Evidence of extraordinary ability: Unless the applicant already has a major international award, the applicant must provide evidence of their extraordinary ability in at least three criteria:
1) Membership in associations in the field which require outstanding achievements of their members, as judged by experts in the field;
2) Published materials about the individual in professional or major trade publications, or published materials about the individual in other major media;
3) Participation, either individually or as part of a panel, as a judge of the work of others in the field;
4) Original scientific, scholarly, artistic, athletic or business-related contributions of major significance in the field;
5) Authorship of scholarly articles in the field, as published in professional or major trade publications or in other major media;
6) Serving in a critical or essential capacity for organizations or establishments that have a distinguished reputation;
7) Commanding a high salary or other significantly high remuneration for services, as compared to others in the field;
8) Comparable evidence where the listed criteria are not readily applicable to the beneficiary’s occupation.
Job offer or engagement: The applicant must have a job offer or engagement in the United States that requires their extraordinary ability. This can be a job with a company, a contract with a client, or a performance or exhibition opportunity.
Advisory opinion: The applicant must obtain an advisory opinion from a peer group or labor organization in their field, which confirms their extraordinary ability and the importance of their work.
Duration of stay: The O-1 visa can be granted for up to three years, with extensions available thereafter.
Dependents
The spouse and unmarried children under 21 of the O-1 visa holder can apply for O-3 visas to accompany them to the United States.