Individuals with an extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in motion picture or television industry can apply for a O-1B visa. To qualify for an O-1 visa in the motion picture or television industry, the beneficiary must demonstrate extraordinary achievement evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition significantly above that ordinarily encountered to the extent the person is recognized as outstanding, notable or leading in the motion picture and/or television field.

Individuals with an extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics can apply for an O-1A visa. Extraordinary ability in the fields of science, education, business or athletics means a level of expertise indicating that the person is one of the small percentages who has risen to the very top of the field of endeavor.

Individuals who are the spouse or children of O-1’s and O-2’s can apply for an O-3 visa to accompany their spouse and parents. However, they will not be able to work in the US.

As an O nonimmigrant, the beneficiary may be admitted to the United States for the validity period of the petition, up to a maximum of three years, plus a period of up to 10 days before the validity period begins and 10 days after the validity period ends.

To be qualified for an O-1 visa, the applicant must prove at least 3 out of the following 6 categories:

• evidence that the applicant has performed, and will perform, services as a lead or starring participant in productions or events that have a distinguished reputation as evidenced by critical reviews, advertisements, publicity releases, publication contracts, or endorsements
• evidence that the applicant has achieved national or international recognition for achievements evidenced by critical reviews or other published materials by or about the person in major newspapers, trade journals, magazines, or other publications
• evidence that the applicant has performed, and will perform, in a lead, starring, or critical role for organizations and establishments that have a distinguished reputation, as evidenced by articles in newspapers, trade journals, publications, or testimonials
• evidence that the applicant has a record of major commercial or critically acclaimed successes (as evidenced by title, rating, standing in the field, box office receipts, motion pictures, or television ratings) and other occupational achievements reported in trade journals, major newspapers, or other publications
• evidence that the applicant has received significant recognition for achievements from organizations, critics, government agencies or other recognized experts in the field. Such testimonials must be in a form that clearly indicates the author’s authority, expertise, and knowledge of the applicant’s achievements, and
• evidence that the applicant has either commanded a high salary or will command a high salary or other substantial remuneration for services, as compared to others in the field, as shown by contracts or other reliable evidence.

Please call or email us to schedule a free consultation. We will be happy to walk you through the process and review your documents and determine if you are qualified for an O-1 visa.

Yes, you need an US visa sponsor/petitioner to apply for an O-1 visa. A copy of any written contract between the petitioner and the beneficiary is required.

Yes, you need to obtain a written advisory opinion from a peer group (including labor organizations). If the O-1 petition is for an individual with extraordinary achievement in motion picture or television, the consultation must come from an appropriate labor union and a management organization with expertise in the beneficiary’s area of ability. We will prepare a package on your behalf and submit it to the appropriate unions.