What is an O-1 visa?
The O 1 nonimmigrant visa can be obtained by a person who possesses extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or someone who has a demonstrated record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry and has been recognized nationally or internationally for those achievements.
To learn more about O-1 visa and applying, read our "Quick Guide to the O-1 Visa Application Process".
For how long is the O-1 visa valid?
The O 1 nonimmigrant visa is normally valid for up to 3 years. If it is granted to cover a specific event, production, or activity, the period may be shorter.
Extensions are available in 1-year increments with no limit. The visa holder must prove, however, that the purpose of extension is to participate in the same event or activity which was the basis for the original Visa
What documents are required?
- Form I-129 – Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker submitted by the employer.
- Federal tax returns, financial statements or annual reports showing that the employer can pay the wage offered to the employee.
- The relevant evidence for each individual regulatory criterion the beneficiary is attempting to satisfy.
- A statement and evidence that the beneficiary is coming to the U.S. to continue to be employed in his/her area of sustained national or international acclaim.
- Evidence that the beneficiary has at least three years of experience in teaching and/or research in the academic field (if applicable).
- A copy of the petitioner's actual job offer issued to the beneficiary. This letter or contract must include the job title, terms, and conditions of the position offered.
- The intended employee's passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of their intended stay in the United States.
- Prospective Workers apply for a Visa and/or Admission outside the United States providing all the necessary documentation.
The list may vary depending on each individual case, you may be requested only one of the documents listed above or you might be requested additional documents
Who can apply?
- Individuals with an extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics (Visa O1)
- Individuals with an extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry (O-1B)
- Individuals who will accompany an O-1, artist or athlete, to assist in a specific event or performance. Such assistance must be an “integral part” of the O-1’s activity.
- Individuals who are the spouse or children of O-1’s and O-2’s (O-3)
- To qualify for an visa O1, the applicant must demonstrate extraordinary ability by sustained national or international acclaim and must be coming temporarily to the United States to continue work in the area of extraordinary ability.
- The applicant must possess a level of expertise indicating that they are part of a small percentage that has risen to the top of their field.
The list above contains the general requirements and may vary depending on each individual case, there may be requirements other than listed above.
How much does it cost?
U.S. government fees are mandatory and nonrefundable:
- USCIS filing fee for Form I-129: $460
- USCIS biometric services fee: $85
- O-visa type fees, paid by the intended employee outside of the U.S.: $190
The total cost can vary depending on each individual case. The figures above do not include attorney fees, professional assistance and translation fees, travel costs, securing needed documents, postage, etc. Government fees may change by the decision of the government
Application advisory fee charged by Immigrate.tech: $4,000
Application tips:
- Submit your valid and up-to-date official documents
- Answer all of the questions honestly
- Avoid spelling mistakes
- Provide as much information as you can
- Do not provide false, misleading or fraudulent information or documents