What are the Requirements for an O1 Visa?

By Asim Kilinc, Immigration Attorney at CK Law Firm

The O1 visa is a prestigious immigrant visa that provides permanent residency in the United States for individuals with extraordinary abilities. This visa type is specifically designed for those who have achieved international recognition in fields such as science, arts, education, business, or athletics.

• What is an O1 Visa?
• What are the Differences Between O1-A and O1-B Visas?
• What are the Requirements for Applying for an O1-A Visa?
• What are the Requirements for Applying for an O1-B Visa?

If you have any additional questions about the O1 visa type, please do not hesitate to reach out to me via the comments section below this article, by sending a message directly on LinkedIn, or through the CK Law Firm Immigration Law Firm website, of which I am a co-founder.

What is an O1 Visa?

The O1 visa, or Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement visa, is a type of temporary employment visa available to individuals who have achieved success in science, arts, athletics, business, or education as determined by the USCIS. There are two categories under this visa type: O1-A and O1-B.

What are the Differences Between O1-A and O1-B Visas?

O-1A and O-1B visas are issued to individuals with extraordinary abilities in the United States, but they cater to different fields. Here are the primary differences between the O-1A and O-1B visas:

O-1A Visa:

• The O-1A visa is for individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields such as science, education, business, or athletics.
• The applicant must demonstrate extraordinary achievements in their field, evidenced by internationally recognized awards, publications, or other significant accomplishments.
• This visa covers a broad professional spectrum and is often chosen by scientists, academics, recognized business leaders, top executives, and professional athletes.

O-1B Visa:

• The O-1B visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities in the arts, cinema, or television industries.
• Applicants must provide evidence of extraordinary abilities in the arts, such as winning significant awards or participating in widely recognized projects.
• This visa is commonly used by actors, singers, dancers, directors, musicians, and other artists.

What are the Requirements for Applying for an O1-A Visa?

When applying for an O-1A visa, the USCIS requires the applicant to meet specific criteria to prove their extraordinary abilities. The applicant must meet at least three of the following eight criteria:

Having Won Awards or Prizes:

The applicant must have won nationally or internationally recognized awards or prizes in their field. These awards prove the applicant’s extraordinary abilities and prominent position in their field.

Being Featured in Recognized Publications or Media:

The applicant must have articles or news features about them in recognized professional publications, mainstream media, or trade publications. These articles should showcase the applicant’s achievements and recognition in their field.

Serving as a Judge for Others’ Work:

The applicant must have served as a judge for others’ work in their field or a related field. This demonstrates the applicant’s expertise in their area of specialization.

Making Significant Contributions in the Field:

The applicant must have made original scientific, academic, or commercial contributions in their field. These contributions should bring innovations or advancements in their field.

Membership in Recognized Professional Associations:

The applicant must be a member of a recognized professional association where membership is limited to those who have shown extraordinary achievement. This membership demonstrates the applicant’s competence and prestige in their field.

Having Published Work in Recognized Professional or Trade Publications or Media:

The applicant’s work must have been published in recognized professional journals, trade publications, or other media sources. These publications should prove the applicant’s expertise and influence in their field.

Receiving High Salary or Compensation:

The applicant must have received or be currently receiving a high salary compared to others in their field. This indicates the applicant’s value and competence in their area.

Commercial or Professional Success in the Field:

The applicant must have achieved recognized commercial success in their field. These successes demonstrate the applicant’s advanced level in their career and their extraordinary abilities in their field.

Applicants who meet at least three of these criteria may be eligible for the O-1A visa. The USCIS carefully evaluates each application and expects applicants to clearly demonstrate their extraordinary abilities and achievements in their field.

What are the Requirements for Applying for an O1-B Visa?

The O-1B visa is granted to individuals with extraordinary abilities in the arts, cinema, or television industries. The USCIS requires applicants to meet at least three of the following six criteria:

Having Played a Leading or Significant Role:

The applicant must have played a leading or significant role in a recognized production. This role should demonstrate the applicant’s artistic talents and recognition in their field.

Receiving Praise from Recognized Critics, Organizations, or Media:

The applicant’s artistic talents and achievements must have received praise from recognized critics, organizations, or media outlets. These accolades should support the applicant’s extraordinary abilities.

Achieving Commercial Success or Making Significant Contributions with a Recognized Organization or Institution:

The applicant must have worked with a recognized organization or institution to achieve commercial success or make significant contributions. These successes demonstrate the applicant’s extraordinary abilities in their field.

Participating in Artistic Activities Undertaken by Recognized Institutions, Organizations, or Government Agencies:

The applicant must have participated in artistic activities organized by recognized institutions, organizations, or government agencies. These activities should provide an opportunity for the applicant to showcase their talents.

Receiving High Salary or Compensation for Their Work:

The applicant must have received or be in the process of negotiating a high salary for their work. This shows the applicant’s artistic talents’ value and market presence.

Playing a Leading or Significant Role in Recognized Artistic Groups, Organizations, or Collaborative Projects:

The applicant must have played a leading or significant role in recognized artistic groups, organizations, or projects. This role should demonstrate the applicant’s leadership and competence in their field.

Applicants who meet at least three of these criteria may be eligible for the O-1B visa. The USCIS expects applicants to provide sufficient documentation and evidence to prove their extraordinary abilities in the arts, cinema, or television industries.

Applying for an O1 visa can be a complex process, but you can increase your chances of success by following the correct steps and providing the necessary documents. If you wish, you can contact me via cklawfirm.org or LinkedIn to find out if you are eligible for an O1 visa through our free consultation service. All you need to do is send us your CV. We will review your CV and get back to you within 24 hours.

Who is Attorney Asım Kılınç?

Attorney Asım Kılınç is the co-founder of CK Law Firm and is recognized for his expertise in immigration law and U.S. asylum applications. Kılınç completed his Master’s degree at Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law and is a member of the Missouri Bar Association, with a focus on U.S. immigration law.

Attorney Kılınç’s extensive knowledge and experience in immigration law have significantly contributed to CK Law Firm’s success in this field. He has actively participated in the preparation of over 1,000 cases, demonstrating his expertise in this area. By providing comprehensive and professional legal support to his clients, he helps them adapt to their new lives in the U.S.

Attorney Kılınç is also well-versed in U.S. asylum applications. He meticulously guides his clients through the process and ensures they receive the best legal advice. He provides top-quality service to clients in matters of citizenship, Green Card, work permits, and other immigration processes, supporting them from start to finish on their journey to U.S. citizenship.

Attorney Asım Kılınç, who solidifies CK Law Firm’s leadership in immigration law and U.S. asylum applications, offers reliable and effective legal consultancy services to clients, assisting them in building a new life in the U.S.