O-1 | Extraordinary Ability

Form O-1 is a nonimmigrant visa for individuals who possesses extraordinary ability or achievement in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or in the motion picture or television industry and has been recognized nationally or internationally for those achievements.

Qualifications

  • Must demonstrate extraordinary ability (defined as rising to the very top of your field, receiving distinction)
  • Plan to temporarily stay in the U.S.

What You'll Need

  • Completed and signed Form I-129
  • Resume or CV
  • Copy of diploma and transcripts
  • Evidence of extraordinary achievements in the field (articles, awards, memberships in professional organizations)
  • 6-10 letters of recommendation
  • If currently in the U.S., provide the following:
  • Copy of current I-94 card, passport and other immigration documentation
  • I-20(s) and employment documentation, if applicable
  • DS-2019(s)/IAP-66(s) and/or waiver, if applicable
  • Copy of I-797 approval notice of current status
  • If currently working for another employer as O-1, please provide copies of all O-1 approval notices

Questions? Contact us.

Whatever your immigration issue may be, we are here to help. Our team of attorneys and staff work hard to help you reach your goals.

FAQs

How long is my O-1 Visa valid?

The O-1 visa may be valid for an initial period of three years, and may be extended indefinitely in one-year increments.

Is there a fee to file the O-1?

Yes, there is a $460 filing fee. If you opt for premium processing, you will have to spend an additional $1,410 on top of the standard fee. If you apply online, you can also pay online. If you pay by mail, then you can pay via money order, personal check, cashier’s check, or by credit card using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. If you pay by check, you must make your check payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

How can I file my O-1 form?

You can file your form online or by mail. Filing online allows you to:

  • Pay your filing fee online
  • Check the status of your case
  • Receive notifications and case updates
  • View personalized case completion date estimates
  • Respond to requests for evidence
  • Manage your contact information, including updating your address

 

You can create an account to file online. You can also mail your form to your region’s designated USCIS office.

Of course, you can choose to manage your case independently. However, working with immigration experts can help you navigate the process and provide guidance throughout.

You may be represented, at no expense to the U.S. government, by an attorney or other duly authorized representative. Your representative must submit Form G-28, Notice of Entry or Appearance as Attorney or Representative. Your representative may also submit Form G-28 at the time of your interview.

Why should I work with ImmigrationUSA?

Immigration issues can be quite complicated. Combine that with the current rate of change in U.S. policies, it can be hard to keep up. Our team puts their experience to work for you and your particular situation. We work hard to stay on top of policy changes and are prepared for changes down the line. We offer patented online software, MyEsq, that streamlines the filing process and makes our knowledgeable team of lawyers just a click away.

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