O-1 A/B – Extraordinary Ability
The O-1 visa has two subcategories: O-1A for sciences, education, business, or athletics, and O-1B for arts and entertainment. Both categories are for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement, allowing them to work in the U.S. for a specific employer.
The O-1 visa is a temporary work visa designed for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in their field. It comprises two subcategories: the O-1A visa, specifically for those who demonstrate extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics; and the O-1B visa, intended for individuals with exceptional talent in the arts or those who have achieved extraordinary success in the motion picture or television industry. This visa allows these highly skilled individuals to work temporarily in the United States for a designated employer.
Determination of an Extraordinary Ability in Your Field
How to Demonstrate Extraordinary Ability for Your O-1 Visa Application
To qualify for an O-1A visa, you must demonstrate extraordinary ability in the fields of Science, Education, Business, or Athletics. This can be proven by:
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Receiving a major international award: Such as a Nobel Prize or Olympic Medal.
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Meeting at least 3 of the following criteria:
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Receiving lesser but still significant awards.
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Membership in prestigious professional organizations.
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Published articles written about your work in major media.
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Serving as a judge for the work of others in your field.
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Making significant original contributions to your field.
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Publishing scholarly articles in professional journals.
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Holding a critical role in distinguished organizations.
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Commanding a high salary or compensation compared to others in your field.
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If these criteria don't directly apply to your profession, you can present comparable evidence to establish your extraordinary ability.
Employer Sponsorship Still Required
The O-1 visa requires employer sponsorship. You cannot file an O-1 application independently. Once approved, this visa restricts your employment to the sponsoring employer.
Accompanying Family Members:
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The spouses and unmarried minor children (under 21 years of age) of an O-1 visa holder may seek O-3 visa status to reside in the U.S. with the primary visa holder.
Working for Multiple Entities:
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If an O-1 visa holder intends to work concurrently for multiple employers, each employer is required to submit a separate O-1 petition to the USCIS.