What is the O-1 Visa?
The O-1 Visa is a non-immigrant visa for individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields like sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics to work in the United States. As an alternative to the H-1B or the F-1 OPT, the O-1 visa recognizes those who have achieved national or international acclaim through awards, publications, or significant contributions.
The O-1 visa offers:​
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Duration up to three years and the possibility of extensions.
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Offers flexibility to work with multiple employers.
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Serves as a path to the EB-1A Green Card.
O-1 Visa Categories
Amy Macedo | Influencer
If you’re a content creator or influencer thinking about working in the U.S., I wholeheartedly recommend Gill Law Firm. They’re the best at what they do and truly understand the world we work in.
​Maya Bruney | Manager
I am incredibly grateful to Gill Law Firm for their exceptional work in securing my O1 visa. They guided me through every step of the process with clear communication, making it more manageable.
​Akhmed Akhriev | MMA
Gill Law Firm was thorough and professional throughout the process, and they understood my journey as an undefeated MMA fighter. Thanks to their expertise, I can now focus on competing at the highest level in the United States.
What are the O-1 Visa Benefits?
No Annual Cap
Unlimited number of visas available each year, unlike other visa categories.
Bring Your Dependents
Spouses and children under 21 can accompany the O-1 visa holder under the O-3 Visa.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
The O-1 visa can lead to other visa categories and U.S. permanent residency (Green Card).
Flexible Employment
Allows working for multiple employers, as long as each files a petition.
Flexible Duration
Start with a 3 years period, with the chance to extend your status for up to 1 year at a time.
No Labor Certification Required
It does not require a labor certification, making the application process faster.
What Documentation do you Need for an O-1 Visa?
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker)
Form I-797 (Approval Notice)
DS-160 (Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application Form)
Written contract between you and the employer or agent
Passport
Visa Appointment Confirmation
Receipt of Visa Fee Payment
Itinerary with event dates and locations
What are the O-1 Visa Requirements?
Applicants need to comply with at least 3 out of 8 criteria to get the O-1 visa. Take into consideration that requirements per criteria can vary depending on your field.
National or International Awards
You can qualify if you've earned major awards or recognitions in your industry.
Media Coverage
Articles in respected magazines, newspapers, or websites that highlight your achievements.
Membership in Organizations
You belong to associations or organizations that require outstanding achievement to join.
Judging Others’ Work of Others
You’ve served as a judge or panelist, evaluating the work of others in your field.
Original Contributions
You’ve made original, significant contributions, like inventions, strategies, or creative work.
Published Work
Written or created scholarly articles, creative works, or professional publications in your field.
Critical Role in Organizations
You’ve played a key role in a distinguished organization, team, company, or project.
High Salary or Compensation
You earn significantly more than others in your field, showing your expertise is in demand.
O-1 Frequently Asked Questions
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How does the O-1 visa compare to other work visas? Unlike the H-1B, the O-1 does not have an annual cap and does not require labor certification, making it a faster and more flexible option for highly accomplished professionals.
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Can I switch employers while on an O-1 visa? Yes, but your new employer must file a new petition. You cannot work for a different employer until USCIS approves the transfer.
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Can I switch employers while on an O-1 visa? Yes, but your new employer must file a new petition. You cannot work for a different employer until USCIS approves the transfer.
Read more Inspiring Stories From Our O-1 Visa Clients
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