Who can utilize the O-1 visa to enter the United States to work?
The O-1 visa is set aside for aliens of extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, certain aliens accompanying or assisting those aliens, and their family members.


What are the requirements to qualify for an O-1 visa?

• Individuals in the sciences, education, business, and athletics must demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim and recognition for achievements in the field of expertise.
• Aliens of extraordinary ability in the arts must provide evidence of a high level of achievement in the field of arts as evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition substantially above that ordinarily encountered to the extent that a person is described as prominent, leading, or well-known in the field of arts.
• Aliens of extraordinary ability in the motion picture or television industries must prove that they have a very high level of accomplishment, evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition significantly above that ordinarily recognized as outstanding or notable.

How long may an O-1 visa recipient stay in the U.S.?
The initial period of stay may be approved for the time necessary to complete the event or activity or group of events which the nonimmigrant is admitted, up to a period of three years.


May the O-1 alien apply for an extension of stay after the initial three years?
Yes. Extension of stay for an O-1 alien and support personnel may be granted in increments of up to one year to continue the event for which they were admitted.


What are the required steps for an individual to obtain an O-1 visa?
(1) The employer must obtain an advisory opinion from a peer group, labor organization, or management organization; (2) An O petition must be approved by the appropriate INS Service Center; and (3) A U.S. Consulate must issue to the alien an O-1 visa.


May family members accompany the O-1 alien to the United States?
Yes. The spouse and unmarried children under 21 may obtain an O-3 visa to accompany the principal alien to the United States.


May O-3 aliens engage in employment while in the United States?
No. O-3 aliens are not authorized to work while in the United States.


May the assistant(s) of the O-1 alien be allowed to accompany him or her to the United States?
Yes. Assistant(s) of the O-1 alien may come to the U.S. with an O-2 visa.

Disclaimer:
The information contained herein is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as legal advice. You must consult with an attorney to obtain specific, comprehensive legal advice. Please note that information as well as government fees are subject to change without notice. For current fees and information contact the respective government agency directly.