O-1A and O-1B Visas Immigration Attorney

The O-1 visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in Sciences, Arts, Education, Business, or Athletics. The petition can be filed either by a U.S. employer or by a U.S. agent on behalf of the beneficiary. When filed by an employer, it provides a straightforward employment-based path, while filing through an agent offers flexibility for individuals working on multiple projects or for multiple employers, allowing greater control over the visa process. 

O-1 applicants must demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim in their field and show that they will continue working in their area of extraordinary ability. To qualify, applicants must meet at least three of several specific criteria, such as receiving a major award, having published materials highlighting their work, or earning a high salary compared to peers in the field. 

• Major Awards or Prizes 
• Recognition for excellence, such as a Nobel Prize, Oscar, or industry-specific award. 
  
• NOTE: A single major, internationally recognized award (like a Nobel Prize, Olympic medal, or Academy Award) can satisfy the O-1 visa requirement without needing additional criteria. 
  
• Membership in Prestigious Associations 
  
• Memberships that require outstanding achievements, judged by leaders in the field. 
  
• Published Material About the Applicant 
  
• Articles or features in trade publications, newspapers, or media highlighting your work. 
  
• Original Contributions of Major Significance 
  
• Innovations, patents, or breakthroughs that have a substantial impact on your field. 
  
• Authorship of Scholarly Articles 
  
• Publications in professional journals, books, or other respected media. 
  
• Critical or Essential Role in a Distinguished Organization 
  
• Serving in a key capacity for a company, research institution, or team with a strong reputation. 
  
• High Salary or Remuneration 
  
• Compensation that exceeds the standard in your industry or position. 
  
• Judging the Work of Others 
  
• Serving on panels, juries, or committees to evaluate the work of peers. 
  
• Exhibitions or Showcases of Work (for artists) 
  
• Participation in art shows, gallery exhibitions, or performances. 
  
• Commercial Success in the Arts (for entertainers) 
  
• Evidence of box office success, record sales, or other measurable achievements. 
  

Tip: Meeting multiple criteria with strong supporting documentation significantly strengthens an O-1 petition. 

Contact our office to request a detailed list of documents required for an O-1 petition.