Evidence Requirements For O-1 Visas

To qualify for an O-1 visa, an applicant must show that they have extraordinary ability in their field of endeavor. An applicant must be able to demonstrate that they received, either nationally or internationally, sustained acclaim in their field. They must intend to work in that field when they are in the United States.

In the fields of sciences, business, education, and athletics, a person must demonstrate that he or she is at the top of their profession. In the arts, the person must demonstrate that they are a leading figure or person of renown. An applicant for an O-1B visa involved in television or movies must show that they are leading or notable persons in the field.

O-1A Visa Evidence Requirements

Applicants for an O-1A visa must demonstrate extraordinary ability in the fields of sciences, business, education, or athletics. This can be demonstrated through the receipt of a major award, such as a Nobel Prize. Without such an award, an applicant must demonstrate evidence of three of the following criteria:

• Awards or prizes for excellence in their field
• Membership in associations related to the field that require outstanding achievements to join
• Articles published about the applicant and the applicant’s contribution to the field.
• Original and significant contributions in the field
• Articles authored by the applicant that are published in scholarly journals.
• A salary at a level indicating that the applicant has an extraordinary ability
• Evidence that the applicant has judged others in the field, either individually or as part of a panel
• Evidence that the applicant has been employed by a distinguished establishment or organization in an essential capacity.

O-1B Visa Evidence Requirements

O-1B visas are available to those individuals who have shown extraordinary ability in the arts or in the motion picture or television industry. This can be demonstrated through the receipt of an award such as an Academy Award or an Emmy. Without these awards, an applicant must demonstrate evidence of three of the following criteria:

• Evidence of performances as a star or leading role in distinguished events or productions
• International or national recognition for past achievements
• Evidence of performances as a star or lead participant for distinguished organizations or establishments
• Significant commercial success or critical recognition
• Recognition from experts, critics, or government agencies for achievements in the field.
• Evidence of receiving compensation for work in the field that, when compared to others, demonstrates an extraordinary ability

An Immigration Attorney Can Help

There is a wide variety of possible pieces of evidence that could qualify as sufficient for an O-1 visa application. An experienced O-1 visa attorney can help you put together the best application. At Serving Immigrants, Inc., we have the experience and the knowledge to guide you through the process. Contact us online or call us at (305) 907-6151 to schedule a strategy session.