Persons of Extraordinary Ability (O-1)

O-1 visas are nonimmigrant visas available to very talented foreign nationals in the sciences, education, business, athletics, motion pictures or television, and the arts. Those in the sciences, education, business or athletics must show the highest level of achievement, by demonstrating they are part of a small percentage of individuals who have risen to the very top of their field (such as winning a major international prize). Individuals in the motion picture or TV industry must show they are “notable” or “outstanding”, as evidenced by a very high level of achievement “significantly above that ordinarily encountered”, such as playing leading roles on TV or in motion pictures. Extraordinary ability in the arts is the least restricted, including persons who show a high level of achievement “substantially above that ordinarily encountered”, and requires only that the artist be “prominent” in his field.

An employer or agent must petition for the O-1 visa applicant. The visa is usually limited to the period of the event or employment, up to 3 years. The visa may include support staff that have unique skills or are otherwise essential to artists, athletes, or TV and motion picture performers.