Extraordinary Ability

O-1 visas are available to applicants of "extraordinary ability" in the field of sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or extraordinary achievements in the motion picture and television field. This category is broad and can be appropriate for such diverse applicants as cutting-edge scientific researchers, visionary corporate executives and professional basketball players.

Individuals seeking this visa must be able to demonstrate their extraordinary ability through documentation of sustained national or international acclaim in their field. O-1 petitions are more likely to be successful if a beneficiary has received national or international awards, has a record of press about their work, authored writings in well-known publications, made original contributions to their field, worked for organizations or on projects with a distinguished reputation, earns a high salary or has other similar achievements.

Thos individuals who can qualify for the O-1 visa can usually also meet the legal standard for the corresponding immigrant classification, the EB-1 (extraordinary ability).

The optimal visa option in your case may vary depending on your particular circumstances and situation. To determine the best course of action in your individual case, please contact our office to schedule a free consultation.