The O visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or individuals with merit and outstanding achievements in the film or television industry whose achievements have been recognized nationally or internationally.

The O-1 visa has two subcategories:

• O-1A– Persons possessing extraordinary abilities in science, education, business or sports.
• O-1B – Individuals with extraordinary abilities in the film and television industry.

The O-2 visa is for individuals accompanying O-1 visa holders to facilitate and assist in a specific event or activity.

• The O-1 visa is initially issued for three years. The visa can be extended for one year at a time. An unlimited number of visa extensions may be granted.
• The applicant must demonstrate evidence of legally binding ties to a place of residence outside the United States that the applicant does not intend to abandon.

Requirements:

Generally, to qualify for an O-1 visa, aliens with extraordinary ability must demonstrate evidence of long-standing national or international renown, as well as recognition of their achievements in their professional field, through the provision of factual evidence. Evidence of receipt of major internationally recognized awards, or at least three of the following:

A. Evidence of the individual’s receipt of nationally or internationally recognized awards or prizes in the given field.

B. Evidence of the individual’s membership in an association active in the given field.

C. Printed materials about the individual published in professional or industry publications or the media.

D. Evidence that the individual was hired because of their critical or essential competence in their area of ​​specialization.

E. Evidence that the individual has had or will have a high salary.

Duration of stay/Extension of stay

The O-1 visa is initially issued for three years. It can be extended for one year at a time. There is no limit on the number of extensions that can be granted. Additionally, the applicant must provide evidence of essential ties to their place of residence outside the United States.