Are you an expert in your field?
The O-1 visa provides an opportunity for individuals with extraordinary abilities in their field to work in the United States. Whether you're a scientist, artist, educator, business leader, or athlete, this visa recognizes your significant achievements and allows you to advance your career on an international stage. Unlike other visa categories, the O-1 visa highlights your unique contributions and gives you the freedom to work with multiple employers or projects, offering flexibility and recognition for your exceptional talent.
If you want to better understand this visa, fill out the form below and our team will get in touch.
Who is eligible for the O-1 visa?
What are the types of O-1 visas?
Does the O-1 visa require a job offer?
What is the duration of the O-1 visa?
Can I bring my family with the O-1 visa?
Can the O-1 visa lead to a Green Card?
How can I prove extraordinary ability for the O-1 visa?
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the O1 Visa?
The O1 visa is a non-immigrant visa category that allows individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields such as sciences, arts, education, business, or sports to work temporarily in the United States. The term "non-immigrant" refers to a visa category that permits entry into the U.S. for a temporary stay, unlike immigrant visas which are aimed at permanent residency. Individuals with a non-immigrant visa, such as the O1, enter the U.S. with the intention of performing a specific activity for a set period, without the initial intent to immigrate permanently.
Who can apply?
The O1 visa is intended for individuals who possess extraordinary skills in their field. To be eligible, the applicant must demonstrate national or international recognition, such as prestigious awards (e.g., Nobel Prize, Oscar, or Olympic medals), or meet specific criteria that prove their excellence and significant impact in their field.
What are the criteria for eligibility for the O1 Visa?
To qualify for the O1 visa, the candidate must provide substantial evidence of their extraordinary ability, such as:
Significant Awards: Receipt of major awards or honors.
Publications and Contributions: Authorship of publications in renowned journals or significant contributions in their field.
Judging Participation: Participation as a judge or evaluator of the work of other professionals in the same field.
Affiliation with Professional Associations: Membership in associations that require exceptional achievements for membership.
Industry or Field Impact: Evidence that the work performed has had a significant impact in the field.
How does the application process work?
The application process for the O1 visa involves the following steps:
Employer or Agent Petition: The U.S. employer or an agent representing the individual must file Form I-129 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Supporting Documentation: The petition must be accompanied by documentation proving the applicant's extraordinary abilities.
Consular Interview: After the petition is approved, the applicant must undergo an interview at the U.S. consulate to obtain the visa.
Benefits of the O1 Visa
The O1 visa allows highly qualified individuals to work temporarily in the U.S., with the possibility of renewal as long as they continue to perform relevant functions. The spouse and children under 21 years of age can accompany them with the O3 visa. Although O3 visa holders cannot work, they can study in the U.S.
The O1 visa is a valuable opportunity for exceptional professionals wishing to contribute their expertise in a dynamic environment like the United States, enabling a temporary stay focused on achieving specific goals within their field of excellence.