O1 Visa: Individuals with Extraordinary Ability

What is O1 Visa 

The O1 Visa is a U.S. non-immigrant visa designed for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in the sciences, arts, education, business, athletics, or the motion picture and television industry. It allows these individuals to work in the U.S. temporarily in their area of expertise. The O1 is often used by highly accomplished professionals, artists, performers, and researchers.

O1 Visa Requirements

To qualify for an O1 Visa, the applicant must:

• Demonstrate extraordinary ability, shown by sustained national or international acclaim.

• Provide evidence of significant achievements, such as awards, critical roles, published material, original contributions, or high salary.

• Be coming to the U.S. to work in their field of expertise.

• Have a U.S. employer, agent, or sponsor file the petition on their behalf.

• Submit support letters from experts in the field confirming the applicant’s reputation and impact.

There are two subcategories:

• O1A: For individuals in sciences, education, business, or athletics.

• O1B: For those in the arts or the film/TV industry.

O1 Visa Process

The O1 visa process includes the following steps:

1. A U.S. employer or agent files Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) with USCIS.

2. Submit evidence of extraordinary ability and documentation of the U.S. event, performance, or employment.

3. Provide advisory opinion letters from professional peer groups or labor organizations.

4. Once the petition is approved, the applicant applies for the O1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate using Form DS-160.

5. Attend a visa interview, submit supporting documents, and await the visa issuance.

O1 Visa Processing Time

• USCIS Processing Time: Usually 2 to 3 months.

• Premium Processing (Optional): Guarantees a response within 15 calendar days.

• Embassy/Consulate Processing: May take a few weeks after petition approval.

• Total Timeframe: Typically 1 to 3 months, depending on the service center and consular schedule.

The O1 visa is initially granted for up to 3 years, with extensions available in 1-year increments for ongoing projects.