O1A Visa (Extraordinary Workers)

O1A visa benefits those of extraordinary ability in the business, arts, science, education, or athletics. With an O1A visa, a worker is normally approved for a period of up to 3 years. These visas are for aliens who are planning to provide service as a scientist, business professional, a researcher, or any profession in that designated field.

Please note that people in different fields have different standards of review.

An O1A visa is not a permanent visa. If you are looking for something permanent check out our EB1-A section.

Things you need to know when applying:

O1A visa benefits people of extraordinary abilities in the arts, education, business, science or athletics.
O1A Visa holders must be coming temporarily to the United States to continue work in their designated field.
O1A does not have the lottery restrictions including private owned companies.
There is no wage requirement.
O1A Visa holders can stay up to 3 years.

Receiving a national or international award in their field
Having a membership which requires outstanding achievements
Work being featured in high profile publication, or mainstream media
The applicant has served as a judge of others in the same field
Have notable published articles
Have made original contribution of major significance in their field
High salary
Other evidence of expertise that does not fit and of the criteria above

Spouses and children of an O1A visa holder can apply for O3 visas. By doing this it will allow you to accompany the primary visa holder for the extent of their stay in the United States. You can either arrive with the O1A holder or later. Note that O3 visa holders are permitted to only study and can not work in the U.S

The O1A is like the EB1-1 but it should be noted that the permanent residency requires more evidence than the O1 Visa.

If you do not meet the qualifications, you may look at the EB2 (Exceptional ability) or EB3(Labor certification) green cards.

Please contact us where our immigration attorney will be happy to help you with your options.

Yes, there is no limit on extensions, but the visa holder will have to show that they are still in their field. Extensions are available in 1-year increments.

No. The O1A status can only work in the field that they have identified in. An exception to this rules related to an entertainer who has added additional engagements or performances that requires a person of O1A caliber.

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