O visa

The O visa is a United States nonimmigrant visa classification for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement. It is divided into several categories:

• O-1A: Individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics (not including the arts). This requires sustained national or international acclaim and is supported by extensive documentation.

• O-1B: Individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry. The required level of recognition is higher than that for typical artistic professions.

• O-2: Individuals who will accompany an O-1, artist or athlete, to assist in a specific event or performance. The O-2 applicant's skills and knowledge must be critical to the O-1's performance and not generally possessed by others. They must be an integral part of the O-1's performance.

• O-3: The dependent spouse and children of O-1 and O-2 visa holders. O-3 visa holders are not authorized to work in the United States.

Eligibility Requirements:

Specific eligibility requirements vary depending on the O visa subcategory. Generally, applicants must demonstrate a high level of expertise in their field through extensive documentation, including evidence of national or international recognition, publications, awards, and significant contributions to their field.

Application Process:

The process typically involves filing a petition (Form I-129) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) by a U.S. employer or agent. The petition must be approved before the individual can apply for the O visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.

Duration of Stay:

The O visa is generally granted for the duration of the event, activity, or performance for which the individual is entering the United States, with extensions possible to continue or complete the event. The initial period of stay is typically up to three years, with extensions granted in one-year increments to continue the activity or event.

Common Uses:

The O visa is frequently used by artists, athletes, scientists, business professionals, and other highly skilled individuals who are invited to the United States for specific events, projects, or performances.