From Outside the United States
If you are currently living outside of the United States, an O-1 overseas petition will be prepared. Find overseas application procedures and checklists
Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement (O-1)
O-1 status is suitable for individuals who have attained national or international acclaim for extraordinary achievements in the sciences, arts, education, business or athletics.
Visa summary:
- O-1 Visa-holders must:
- Possess extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics;
- Be able to provide extensive documentation of sustained national and/or international acclaim; and
- Seek to enter the United States to continue work in their area of extraordinary ability. However, the position need not require the services of a person of extraordinary ability.
- Visas can be applied for an initial period of 3 years and may be extended in one-year increments. There is no limit on the number of extensions allowed.
- Dependents of the O-1 beneficiary hold O-3 status.
*Note: unlike the H-1B category, the Department of Labor is not involved in the O-1 process.
O-1 Eligibility and Documentation Required
Extraordinary ability is defined as a high level of expertise and indicates that the person is one of a small percentage who has risen to the very top of his/her field. Find eligibility and required documentation.
Applying for an O-1 Visa
From Within the U.S.
If you are currently living in the United States in a different visa category (such as F-1, J-1, H-1B, etc.), then a Change of Status O-1 petition will be prepared. Find change of status application procedures and checklists.
Extending or Amending an O-1
If you currently hold an O-1 visa, but something is changing such as your host institution, end date, job details or similar, an O-1 extension will be prepared.
O-1 Visa Compliance and Travel
It is important that you maintain your O-1 status by extending/amending your visa if necessary, and by following the visa's compliance requirements.
View all visa requirements and restrictions
Bringing Spouses/Partners and Children
Spouses and children under age 21 will fall in the O-3 visa category. This category carries certain restrictions, such as ineligibility to seek employment.