Applying for an O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa
While there are many restrictions on immigration today, the United States still aspires to welcome the best and brightest from all around the world. Whatever your specialty, if you are a leader in your profession you may apply for a unique type of visa to temporarily live and work in the United States. If you are a professional recognized to be at the top of your field, you may be eligible to apply for an O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa.
Qualifications
The O-1 is a unique visa with unique requirements. Eligibility focuses on the applicant’s standing in his or her field of specialty. To qualify for an O-1 visa, a foreigner must meet one of the following specifications:
He or she must have received a significant national or international award for performance in his or her field, which recognizes the recipient for outstanding achievement, OR
He or she must possess three of the following criteria:
- Awards for excellence in his or her professional or academic field
- Media publications featuring the applicant and contributions made to his or her field
- Membership in exclusive organizations related to the applicant’s specialty
- Experience judging the performance of peers or their work in his or her field
- Original contributions to, or articles in publications related to, the applicant’s field
- A high salary or prominent employment position within his or her specialty
If either of these primary qualifications can be met, the applicant is eligible to apply for an O-1 visa to live and work in the United States for a period of up to three years. This is an ideal option for foreigners who are seeking prominent positions in the United States, or for U.S. organizations or institutions who wish to recruit foreign experts and talented individuals for employment.
Contact Us
To learn more about applying for an O-1 extraordinary ability visa, contact the Orange County immigration lawyers of Garg & Associates, P.C. today at 949-540-6704.
