Visas For Individuals With Extraordinary Abilities

Individuals who possess extraordinary abilities in the sciences, education, business, or athletics may be eligible for a non-immigrant O-1 visa if they meet certain criteria. Included among these individuals are people who possess extraordinary abilities in the arts or demonstrated a record of extraordinary achievement in television or motion pictures.

Eligibility Criteria For O-1A Visas

In order to be eligible for an O-1A visa, an individual with extraordinary abilities in science, education, business, and athletics must show that they have been recognized for their talents and abilities. This can be demonstrated through the receipt of an award, such as a Nobel Prize or an Olympic Medal. However, an individual doesn’t have to be the beneficiary of a major award if they can meet three of the following criteria:

• Receipt of nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards
• Membership in associations or organizations that require an outstanding level of achievement
• Published material in professional or major trade publications, newspaper, or other major media
• Original scientific, scholarly, or business-related contributions of major significance in the field
• Authorship of scholarly articles in professional journals or other major media
• A high salary or other remuneration for services as evidenced by contracts
• Participation on a panel, or individually, as a judge of others
• Employment in a critical or essential capacity at an organization with a distinguished reputation

Initial O-1A visa approval is granted for up to three years. The visa may be extended thereafter in one-year increments.

Extraordinary Ability In The Arts

The applicant for an O-1B visa must demonstrate that they are coming to the United States in order to perform in the area of their extraordinary ability. For those with extraordinary abilities in the arts, they must meet the immigration law’s definition of art, which is very broad. In addition, the individual must be recognized as prominent in their field. This can be demonstrated through the receipt of an award, such as an Oscar or a Grammy. Alternately, documentation of certain criteria that demonstrate the individual’s prominence and importance in the field may be provided.

Contact An Experienced O-1 Visa Attorney

Qualifying for an O-1 visa can be a complicated matter, and you may want the assistance of a trusted and experienced immigration lawyer. At Serving Immigrants, Inc., we have extensive experience helping individuals with extraordinary abilities apply for visas. Let us help you. Contact us online or call us at (305) 907-6151 to schedule a strategy session.