Visas for Individuals with Extraordinary Ability

The O visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows Foreign nationals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletic or extraordinary achievement in the fields of film or television, proven by sustained national or international acclaim or receipt of internationally recognized awards to work temporarily in the U.S.

Individuals who have the critical skills and experience necessary to assist in the artistic or athletic performance of an O visa holder for a specific event and are an integral part of the actual performance, may also be issued an O visa. Dependent children and spouse of an O visa holder may also be issued an O visa.

Petition for an O visa may be filed by a United States company or an authorized U.S. agent with the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS) office having jurisdiction over the place of intended employment. A foreign employer may file a petition only through a U.S. agent. In most cases, the employer must consult with the appropriate union or peer group ( and management organization for motion picture and television cases) regarding the nature of the work to be done and the qualifications of the foreign national. An O visa may be granted for the period of time required to accomplish the events or activities in the US, however, may not exceed three years. Further extensions may be granted.

DISCLAIMER: The information given in this website is intended as general information only and is not a substitute for the services of an immigration attorney in your specific case.