Often asked: What Is O1 Visa?

The O1 visa for the US is a non-immigrant type of visa, which is issued to foreign nationals who have exceptional abilities or achievements in their field. Because it is aimed at individuals in science, education, or the arts, it is also referred to as an extraordinary ability visa or a US artist visa. Who Can Apply for an O1 Visa?

How long is an O-1 visa good for?

An O – 1 visa is initially granted for up to three years. Subsequently, it can be extended for one year at a time. There is no limit to the number of extensions that may be granted.

Who qualifies for O1 visa?

To qualify for an O-1 visa, you must demonstrate extraordinary ability by sustained national or international acclaim, or a record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture and television industry, and must be coming temporarily to the United States to continue work in the area of extraordinary ability.

Is O1 Visa better than h1b?

The H-1B visa has one particular advantage: Its threshold ability and education requirement is much lower than for the O-1. Consequently, people who qualify for the O-1 often have a degree or education well above the bachelor’s level (for example, researchers who have a Ph.

Can O1 visa apply for green card?

With an O1 visa you can work in the US for year and continue to renew your visa or extend your status. However, the O1 visa is a non-immigrant visa and does not directly lead to a green card. To go from an O1 visa to green card, you must convert to an immigrant classification.

Is it easy to get O1 visa?

Unsurprisingly, it has not only become more difficult to obtain an H-1B, it has also become more difficult to obtain an O-1 visa as well. O-1 visas are meant for people who have demonstrated extraordinary ability in science, the arts, business, education, or athletics.

Can I travel with O1 visa?

Immigration law does not place travel restrictions on an O-1 visa. You may travel as often and as far as you want, and return to the U.S. after your trip abroad. To re-enter the U.S. after your trip, you will need: A passport that is valid for at least six months longer than your O-1 visa expiration date.

How much does a O1 visa cost?

The standard processing fee of an O1 visa is $460. If you opt for premium processing, you will have to spend an additional $1,410 on top of the standard fee. The USCIS holds the right to either approve or deny your case. It can also ask for additional evidence (RFE).

Can spouse of O1 visa work?

Unfortunately, O-1 spouses are not permitted to work in the United States. Taking up employment will be a violation of your visa status and may affect your stay, leading to heavy penalties under immigration law. If you want to work, you will need to change your status to a work visa category, such as an H-1B.

How many citations is good for O1 visa?

20 scientific papers (you have contributed, authored, researched materials that indicate you have an exert-level understanding of your field) 2 patents (innovation and creativity are especially important attitudes to have when applying for an O-1 visa) 200 citations (others have sought out your expertise)

Does O1 visa need sponsorship?

With very few exceptions, nearly every work visa in the US must be sponsored by a legal and operating US company or agency. Moreover, the O-1 visa will only allow a foreign national to work in the US through the US company that sponsors the O-1 petition.

Can O1 visa work for multiple employers?

Can an O-1 Visa Holder Work for Multiple Employers? You can work for multiple employers on an O-1 visa. It must, however, be noted that most U.S.-based work visas, including the O-1, are designed to reflect the contractual agreement between you and each of the employers you are to work for.

How do celebrities get US visas?

The P-2 visa is farmed out to artists and entertainers slated to perform (solo or as a group) in the United States. To be eligible, however, the performers need to “possess skills comparable to” their American peers. In other words, you don’t need to be “extraordinary” — like you do for the O-1 visa — just good enough.

Which visa can lead to green card?

An “immigrant visa” allows a person to become a permanent resident immediately upon U.S. entry. Such a person will receive a green card soon thereafter, and can stay in the U.S. for life (unless the person does something to become deportable). A “nonimmigrant visa” is only temporary.

How do I apply for an O1 visa?

The steps you and your employer must take when applying for an O1 visa are:

1. Your employer files a petition with the USCIS on your behalf.
2. You file Form DS-160.
3. You pay the O1 visa fees.
4. You schedule an appointment for a visa interview with the nearest US mission.
5. Gather the required documents.

Can an E2 visa lead to a green card?

The E2 visa is a non-immigrant visa which prohibits the visa holder from having an intent to immigrate to the United States at the time the Visa is issued or used for entry. Accordingly, the E2 does not provide an individual with a direct pathway to permanent residency (a green card ).