What Is an O-1 Visa?

Explaining what an O-1 Visa is and its different types

The O-1 visa is primarily a non-immigrant visa. It is for those people who have extraordinary ability in the fields of education, arts, sciences, athletics, or business. 

In addition, it is for those individuals as well who have shown a record of extraordinary achievements and accomplishments in the television industry or motion picture and are renowned for those achievements nationally as well as intentionally. 

This visa is further classified into 4 other types: 

• O-1A: For people having unique abilities in the field of athletics, science, business, and education. 
• O-1B: For people having extraordinary achievements in the television industry or motion picture or unique abilities in the field of arts. 
• O-2: For persons going along with an O-1 artist or athlete to help in a particular performance or event. 
• O-3: For children and spouses of people who have O-1 and O-2 visas.

Benefits of O-1 Visa

Some of the benefits of having an O-1 visa

There are a number of benefits for individuals holding an O-1 visa. Let's discuss these benefits:

1 Cost of O-1 Visa: In contrast to other non-immigrant visas, O-1 is considered to be inexpensive. The complete cost of an O-1 visa may vary between $450-$650. However, if you go for the premium processing, which will significantly reduce the processing time, your cost will be $1,225. 

2 Versatility of sponsor: Unlike various other visas, here, it is not important that the sponsor must be an employer. It can either be an employer or a U.S. agent. 

3 Validity period: Initially, you will get 3 years to stay in the U.S. However, this visa enables you to have an unlimited extension. That is certainly one of the best benefits an O-1 visa holder gets. 

4 Dual Intent: O-1 visa is considered to be a dual intent visa. This allows you as a non-immigrant to further pursue lawful permanent resident status. 

5 Family members and assistants: As we mentioned before, O-1 is further divided into other categories. Category 0-2 and O-3 are the ones that allow your assistants and family members to accompany you, respectively. 

Eligibility of O-1 Visa

What is required to be eligible for this visa

In order to be eligible for the O-1A and O-1B visas, individuals are required to show and prove their extraordinary achievements and abilities. 

For those applying for an O-1A visa, they need to show a one-time major achievement. This may include a Nobel Prize or an Olympic medal. If not, then they may be required to fulfill some additional criteria.

Individuals applying for an O-1B visa need to prove their distinction by showing a one-time major achievement. These may include Director’s Guild Award, Emmy, or Academy Award. If not, then further evidence may be required to prove your extraordinary abilities.  

‍

The Process of O-1 Visa

A complete process of O-1 Visa

The process of applying for an O-1 visa is slightly complex. Following are the steps that are needed to be followed.

First, on your behalf, your employer will file a petition with the USCIS. 

Next, you will file the electronic application form, which is known as the DS-160 visa application. This form is filed by everyone applying for a US visa

Finally, you pay the visa fees and schedule an appointment for the visa interview at your nearest US embassy or consulate. 

Make sure you have gathered all of your documents and submit those documents when going for the interview. 

How Can RB Law Help You?

Undoubtedly, this process of applying for an O-1 visa is a bit challenging. However, proper assistance from a professional in this matter can save your precious time and money as well. Therefore, RB Law is here to help you get your O-1 visa and assist you in fulfilling your dreams. For more details, contact us today. 

‍