O-1 Visa for Extraordinary Ability
A specialized visa for entrepreneurs, scientists, artists, and professionals with demonstrated excellence in their field.
Program Overview
The O-1 visa is designed for individuals who possess extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or who have demonstrated a record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.
At NOVA GLOBAL, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs, scientists, researchers, and other professionals build compelling cases that demonstrate their extraordinary abilities and secure O-1 visa approval.
Dual Intent Allowed
You can pursue permanent residency while on the O-1 visa without jeopardizing your status.
No Annual Cap
Unlike H-1B visas, there's no annual limit on the number of O-1 visas issued.
Family Inclusion
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can accompany you on O-3 dependent visas.
O-1 Visa Categories
O-1A
For individuals with extraordinary ability in science, education, business, or athletics
O-1B
For individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts, motion picture, or television industry
O-2
For individuals who accompany an O-1 artist or athlete to assist in a specific event or performance
O-3
For spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age of O-1 and O-2 visa holders
O-1A Qualification Criteria
To qualify for an O-1A visa, you must demonstrate extraordinary ability by meeting at least 3 of the following criteria or provide evidence of a one-time major achievement (such as a Nobel Prize):
Awards & Recognition
Receipt of nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in your field.
Professional Memberships
Membership in associations that require outstanding achievements as judged by recognized experts in the field.
Published Material
Published material in professional publications or major media about you and your work in the field.
Judging Experience
Participation as a judge of the work of others in the same or a related field of specialization.
Original Contributions
Original scientific, scholarly, or business-related contributions of major significance in the field.
Scholarly Articles
Authorship of scholarly articles in professional journals or other major media in the field.
High Remuneration
Evidence that you have commanded or will command a high salary or other remuneration for your services.
Commercial Success
Evidence of commercial success in the performing arts through box office receipts, sales, or ratings.
Critical Employment
Employment in a critical or essential capacity for organizations with a distinguished reputation.
The O-1 Visa Process
1. Initial Assessment
We evaluate your qualifications, achievements, and credentials to determine your eligibility for the O-1 visa and develop a personalized strategy.
2. Portfolio Development
We help you compile and enhance your professional portfolio, gathering evidence of your extraordinary ability according to USCIS criteria.
3. Secure a Sponsor
We assist in finding a suitable U.S. sponsor (employer, agent, or in some cases, your own company) who will petition for your O-1 visa.
4. Expert Consultation
We obtain advisory opinions from experts in your field who can attest to your extraordinary ability and the significance of your contributions.
5. Petition Filing
We prepare and submit the I-129 petition along with comprehensive supporting documentation to USCIS on behalf of your sponsor.
6. Visa Processing
Upon approval, we guide you through the consular processing (if abroad) or status adjustment (if in the U.S.) to obtain your O-1 visa.
Who Qualifies for an O-1 Visa?
Entrepreneurs & Business Leaders
- •Startup founders with significant investment or traction
- •Executives with a track record of business growth and innovation
- •Industry leaders recognized for business achievements
- •Individuals with patents or innovative business models
Scientists & Researchers
- •Published researchers with significant citations
- •Scientists with breakthrough discoveries or patents
- •PhD holders with substantial research contributions
- •Recipients of research grants or scientific awards
Medical Professionals
- •Physicians with specialized expertise or innovative techniques
- •Medical researchers with significant publications
- •Healthcare innovators with patented medical devices
- •Specialists recognized for excellence in their field
Technology Professionals
- •Software developers with significant innovations
- •IT specialists with rare expertise or certifications
- •Cybersecurity experts with recognized contributions
- •Tech entrepreneurs with successful products or platforms
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the O-1 visa valid?
Initially, O-1 visas are granted for up to three years. After that, they can be extended in one-year increments with no maximum limit, as long as you continue to work in your field of extraordinary ability.
Can I work for multiple employers on an O-1 visa?
Yes, but each employer must file a separate O-1 petition. Alternatively, an agent can file a petition for multiple employers if they're related to the same field or project.
Can I start a business while on an O-1 visa?
Yes, but you can't self-petition. Your company can sponsor you if an independent agent or board can hire and fire you, demonstrating an employer-employee relationship.
Do I need a job offer to apply for an O-1 visa?
Yes, you need a U.S. employer or agent who will sponsor your petition. The job must be in your field of extraordinary ability and require your specialized skills.
Can my family come with me on an O-1 visa?
Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can accompany you as O-3 dependents. While they cannot work on this status, they can attend school or university.
What's the processing time for an O-1 visa?
Standard processing takes 2-3 months. Premium processing is available for an additional fee, which reduces the USCIS processing time to 15 calendar days.
Ready to Pursue Your O-1 Visa?
Let our experts evaluate your qualifications and guide you through building a compelling case for your extraordinary ability visa.