O Visa

 

Overview

The O visa category is for foreign individuals of “extraordinary ability” in the arts, science, business, education, and athletics. Although this category applies to a number of occupations, individuals having extraordinary ability in the arts frequently take advantage of this category.

 

Requirements

The term “extraordinary ability” is defined as the following:

• Science, Education, Business, and Athletes-the individual must have risen to the very top of their industry;
• Artists and Entertainers (Motion picture and television)-the individual has shown a degree of skill and has reached a high level in the motion picture or television industry;
• Artists and Entertainers-the individual has reached a high level in the arts, and he or she is well known in this field.

In order to qualify under science, education, business, or athletics, the individual must have the following:

 

1. Receive a major, internationally-recognized award, such as the Nobel Prize; or

2. Has at least three (3) of the following:

• Received national or international awards for excellence in his/her field;
• Membership in associations where outstanding achievements is a pre-requisite to join;
• Published articles in professional or trade magazines and newspapers about the individual and his/her accomplishments in the field;
• Participated either individually or on a panel, as a judge of others work in the industry;
• Contributed greatly o the scientific, educational, or business related industries;
• Wrote articles on his/her field for professional journals or other major media;
• Been employed in organizations and establishments that have a distinguished reputation;
• High salary or remuneration as result of his/her work; or
• Other supporting evidence

In order to qualify under the Artists and Entertainers category, the alien must have accomplished the following:

 

1. Nominated for or have received an important national or international award such as Grammy, an Academy Award or an Emmy; or

2. Has at least three (3) of the following:

• Has or will perform a starring or lead role in a large production;
• Achieved international or national appreciation;
• Performed a starring role or lead role for organizations or establishments that are well known.
• Participated either individually or on a panel, as a judge of others work in the industry;
• Received recognition for his/her accomplishments from critics, organizations, and other experts in the industry;
• High salary or remuneration as a result of his/her work; or
• Other supporting evidence.

Maximum Stay

There is no limitation on the maximum length of total stay. Generally, a visa may be issued for the duration of time that the alien will need to complete the event or activity, with a maximum length of three (3) years. Extensions may be issued in order to complete the event for which the alien was originally admitted.

 

Dual Intent

Dual intent is recognized with the O category. An alien who is temporarily working in the United States may apply for permanent residence.