You may be eligible for an O-1A visa if you have extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, athletics, or business. You must either prove a major award or satisfy at least 3 of these 8 criteria.
Who Is Eligible for an O-1A Visa?
You may be eligible for an O-1A visa in the United States if you’re an individual of extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, athletics, or business, through sustained national or international acclaim.
How Do You Prove It?
How do you prove it?
Well, you must either prove that you received a major award (such as an Oscar, Pulitzer, Olympic Medal, or their equivalent in your field) OR satisfy at least 3 of the following 8 criteria:
The 8 O-1A Criteria
- Receipt of a lesser nationally or internationally recognized prize or award for excellence in your field
- Membership in associations in your field that require outstanding achievements of their members
- Published material about you and your work in professional or major trade publications or major media
- Participation on a panel or individually as a judge of the work of others in your field
- Employment in a critical or essential capacity for an organization with a distinguished reputation
- Receipt of a high salary or other outstanding remuneration for your services
- Authorship of scholarly articles in professional journals or major media, and
- Making an original scientific, scholarly, or business-related contribution that is of major significance in your field
Remember – You only need to meet 3 of these 8 criteria to qualify for an O1A visa.
How Long Does an O-1 Visa Last?
The initial term of an O1 visa is 3 years, but it can be renewed indefinitely.
You will also have the option to apply for adjustment of your status to permanent residency in the future.
About Me
I’m Joseph Bovino, America-First immigration and business attorney based in Miami, serving clients worldwide, and specializing in O1 visas.
Want to talk through your situation? Book a consultation with me.
