
|
|

O-1 visa classification is reserved for aliens of extraordinary abilities in the field of science, arts, education, business or athletics It is a non-immigrant employment-based visa issued to the foreign nationals who have extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business or athletics. The extraordinary ability in the field of science, education, business, or athletics means a high level of achievement that is considerably above the normal. Individuals with extra ordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry are also eligible to apply for O-1 worker visas. O-2 visas are offered to those who accompany O-1 visa holders in the field of athletics, motion picture and television production.
The visa requires extraordinary ability should be demonstrated "sustained national or international acclaim." The dependants of O-1 visa are permitted to enter the U.S. in O-3 status and are not eligible for employment. Currently, there is no numerical limit on the number of aliens who can receive O-1 visa each year. The time to process O-1 visa ranges from 30 to 60 days.
To qualify for O-1 work visa, the work performed should be temporary. To be specific, applicant for O-1 visa should perform temporary services for a U.S. employer or an agent of an international employer.
The first requirement is for the US employer to file a petition for a non-immigrant worker along with supporting documents showing the evidence of the individual's extraordinary ability. The petition must be filed with all the supporting documents at least six months before the start of employment.
The petition should be accompanied by the following documents:
- written consultation from a labor union, peer group or management organization regarding the nature of the work to be done;
- written contract between the employer and the alien;
- proof of individual's extraordinary ability such as awards, contracts, nominations or similar documents showing the nature of the individual's achievement or the evidence of at least three of the following: (a) receipt of nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in the field of endeavor; (b) employment in a critical or essential capacity for organizations and establishments that have a distinguished reputation; (c) scientific, scholarly or business-related contributions of major significance in the field; or (d) high salary or other substantial remuneration for services as evidenced by contracts or other reliable evidence.
Documents submitted for qualifying extraordinary ability should be very high standards and while filing the petition, a written consultation describing the O-1 worker's abilities should be submitted and O-1 worker visa petition should only be filed by a U.S. employer or a U.S. agent.
The O-1 visa is issued initially for three years and it may be renewed in one year increments or until the project is completed.
Our office will assist applicants with:
- Thorough review of applicant's personal circumstances;
- Point out vital legal issues that may affect O-1 application;
- Exact preparation of your application;
- Submission of your application to the proper government agencies.
For more information regarding O-1 visa, please call us at (213) 389-4488. We are an excellent team of legal professionals to provide you a free initial consultation.
|
|