O-1 Visa – Individuals with Extraordinary Ability
The U.S. Extraordinary Ability Temporary Visa
About the O-1 Visa
This visa is a temporary work visa for individuals with extraordinary ability who have achieved national or international recognition in fields such as science, education, business, arts, film, television, or athletics. It offers priority processing, eligibility to live and work in the U.S., and is widely considered a gateway visa that can later transition to permanent residency via EB-1A.
Advantages
- Gain legal authorization to live and work in the U.S.
- Work for U.S. employers in your field of expertise
- Include essential support staff under the O-2 category (if applicable)
- Bring your spouse and children under O-3 dependent visas
- Eligible to extend your stay with unlimited extensions in 1-year increments
- Pathway to U.S. permanent residency via EB-1A
Requirements
- Prove extraordinary ability with sustained national or international acclaim
- Provide evidence of major awards, media features, expert recognition, or industry impact
- Show continued work in the field of extraordinary ability in the U.S.
- Demonstrate outstanding achievements compared to others in the field
- A U.S. employer or agent must file the petition on your behalf
- Provide a written advisory opinion from a peer group or industry authority
Application Process
If you meet the eligibility criteria for the O-1 visa, a U.S. employer or agent must file Form I-129 with USCIS on your behalf, along with strong supporting evidence demonstrating extraordinary ability.
Contract or Itinerary
Provide a contract with a U.S. employer or detailed itinerary of planned work in your field.
Petition Filing
The employer or agent submits Form I-129 to USCIS with supporting documentation.
Visa Application
After approval, apply for the O-1 visa at a U.S. consulate and attend an interview.