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
On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule that establishes a fixed time period of admission and an extension of stay procedure that impact students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas, and other academic restrictions specifically for F-1 students. The rule is anticipated to take effect Sept. 15, 2026 and will affect members of the international community in different ways. As OISS gathers more information and communicates specific guidance to individuals and groups, we ask that members of the international community refer to the DHS Rule on Admission and Extension webpage as an up-to-date resource. Members of the Northwestern international community who have questions are encouraged to reach out directly to their assigned OISS advisor.
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.