O1 Extraordinary Ability Work Visa

The O-1 visa is a temporary work permit for people that can demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim and must be seeking to work in the field in which they have extraordinary ability.

Dependent family members of the primary O-1 visa holder, such as spouses and children under 21, may obtain an O-3 status and move to the U.S. as well, but are not eligible for work authorization.

Many foreign nationals who qualify for the O-1 work permit subsequently qualify for the EB-1(a) when they are ready to immigrate and pursue a green card.  

We recommend starting the O-1 as soon as possible as the application can take a month to prepare, plus processing times vary. 

O-1 visa applicants must present one of two types of evidence: either a one-time, major international award such as a Nobel Prize or Pulitzer, or at least 3 of the 8 qualifications listed below.

• Receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence,

• Membership in associations in the field which demand outstanding achievement of their members

• Material published about you in professional or major trade publications or other major media

• Judging the work of others, either individually or on a panel

• Proof of original scientific, scholarly, artistic, athletic, or business-related contributions of major significance to the field

• Authorship of scholarly articles in professional or major trade publications or other major media

• Performing a leading or critical role in distinguished organizations

• Commanding a high salary or other significantly high remuneration in relation to others in the field

Check your eligibility now!

1. Use our free eligibility checker to quickly see all work permits that you may qualify for.

2. Or, start your O-1 application by creating an account. It is free and will check if you are eligible for an O-1 visa. Review all the information and documents you must provide, and see all the fees required - no surprises!  With an account, you can schedule a call with one of our immigration experts.