The O-1 visa has been designated for individuals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics or who have a demonstrated record of exceptional achievement in the motion picture or television industry and have been recognized nationally or internationally. Find out if you qualify for an O-1 visa as an extraordinary professional.
What are the O-1 visa categories?
Several visa classifications fall under the O-1 visa. The categories included in the O-1 visa are:
- O-1A Visa: This category is designated for individuals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics
- O-1B Visa: This category is designated for individuals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in the arts or outstanding achievement in the motion picture or television industry
- O-2 Visa: This category is designated for individuals who will accompany an O-1 artist or athlete to assist in a specific event or performance
- O-3 Visa: This category is designated for the spouse or children of O-1 and O-2 visa holders
What are the criteria for the O-1A visa?
In general, to qualify for the O-1A visa category, the petitioner must demonstrate that the beneficiary:
- Has extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics, which has been demonstrated by sustained national or international acclaim;
- Has achievements that have been recognized in the field through extensive documentation and
- Is coming to continue work in extraordinary ability (but not necessarily that the particular duties to be performed require someone of such extraordinary ability).
What does extraordinary ability for an O-1A visa mean?
The extraordinary ability for an O-1A visa means a level of expertise indicating that you are one of the small percentages of professionals who have risen to the very top of your field. Extraordinary ability in the field of arts means distinction. Distinction means a high level of achievement in the field of the arts. This is evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition substantially above that ordinarily encountered to the extent that you are prominent, renowned, leading, or well-known in the arts field.
What are the criteria for the O-2 visa in support of an O-1A visa holder?
To qualify for an O-2 visa in support of an O-1A visa holder, your assistance must be an “integral part” of the O-1A visa holder’s performance. You must also have critical skills and experience with the O-1 visa holder, which are not general and cannot be readily performed by a US worker.
What are the criteria for the O-1B visa?
In general, to qualify for the O-1B visa category, the petitioner must demonstrate that the beneficiary:
- Has extraordinary ability in the arts, which has been demonstrated by sustained national or international acclaim;
- Has achievements that have been recognized in the field through extensive documentation and
- Is coming to work with extraordinary ability (but not necessarily that the particular duties to be performed require someone of such extraordinary ability).
What does extraordinary ability for an O-1B visa mean?
The extraordinary ability for the O-1B visa in the motion picture or television industry is evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition significantly above that ordinarily encountered. You are recognized as outstanding, notable, or leading in the field.
What are the criteria for the O-2 visa in support of an O-1B visa holder?
To qualify for an O-2 visa in support of an O-1B visa holder, you must have skills and experience with the O-1 visa holder that are not general and which are critical either based on a pre-existing longstanding working relationship or concerning the specific production because significant production (including pre-and post-production work) will take place both inside and outside the United States. Your continuing participation is essential to the successful completion of the production.
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