O-1 Visa for Extraordinary Talent: Bring Your Brilliance to the U.S.
Work and live in the U.S. with a visa built for top-tier professionals in academia, science, business, and the arts.
- We specialize in detailing elite careers into compelling O-1 visa petitions
- Personalized construction of your O-1 Petition
What is the O-1 Visa?
The O-1 Visa is a U.S. work visa for individuals who possess extraordinary ability in their field — arts, sciences, education, business, athletics, or entertainment.
It is designed for professionals with national or international recognition, proven expertise, and a documented history of excellence.
Who Should Apply?
You’ve won a major award (or multiple lesser-known honors in your field)
Your work has been featured in major media outlets or industry publications
You’ve played a critical role in distinguished organizations or institutions
You have a proven record of original contributions or significant impact in your field
You earn high compensation that reflects your extraordinary ability
You’re a standout professional — actor, artist, designer, athlete, executive, scientist, or tech innovator
Unsure if you qualify?
We’ll evaluate your background and respond in 24 hours.
Dozens of happy clients served by our immigration lawyers
I had an excellent experience working with Extraordinary Immigration PLLC. From the very beginning, their team was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly responsive. They guided me through every step of the visa process with clarity and attention to detail, making what could have been a stressful experience feel manageable and smooth.
Danielle Moron
19:59 01 Aug 25
Jorge O'Hara
04:20 03 Jul 25
We highly recommend Extraordinary Immigration PLLC. Isht provided exceptional service, demonstrating great responsiveness and accuracy in all the instructions we received regarding our process. Our experience was seamless and positive from start to finish. Whenever we required support, Isht was readily available and acted quickly to assist us.
CARLOS ECHEVERRIA
21:06 18 Jun 25
"A Month and a half from start to finish" Efficient, attentive, prompt, professional and a master of their craft! I don't think i have enough words to express my satisfaction with Isht and his team! Someone maliciously got me into some legal issues that would effect me becoming a US citizen so i needed to have legal representation to get my immigration status taken care of, I hired Isht and his team after being highly recommended. He did not disappoint, i gave him all the information he needed based on my situation he put my file together and within a Month and a half from start to finish i was sworn in as US citizen! I was blown away of how smooth and fast the process was! I was hesitant that the process was going by so fast, due to the current immigration enforcement! Nevertheless I went in and because all the information that Isht and his team gathered and submitted on my behalf the only challenge is to answer the Civic questions which they asked me only 6 because I answer them all right! Before the interview was concluded, the officer asked if I wanted to be sworn in today, which i hoped into ofcoure! I highly recommend them for your immigration services!After making this post, I read the reviews that previous clients have made, they are 100% accurate! I had to add this observation!
Elrado Ellis
11:09 11 Jun 25
Isht and team deliver. Highly recommend!
Freek Meulman
14:20 02 Jun 25
Lawyer Isht Vatsa was very helpful in guiding me throughout the process
Pallavi Doshi
18:06 17 Apr 25
I had an extraordinary experience with Extraordinary immigration law firm! Lawyer Isht Vatsa was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and dedicated—guiding me every step of the way with care and professionalism.
Isac Efraim
15:23 07 Mar 25
Isht and Rocio worked on my citizenship case, and I have nothing but great things to say about them. They treated my case as if I was their only client. Answered every question I had along the process. They were very clear and got back to my emails very quickly. I got my citizenship with no issues. This process went very smoothly thanks to them! Thank you, Isht and Rocio!
Melisa Prince
23:51 17 Feb 25
I had the pleasure of working with Isht and Rocio at Extraordinary Immigration, and I cannot recommend their services enough. They guided me through the process of obtaining my visa for the US with professionalism and expertise.What stood out most to me was their responsiveness—they were always quick to reply to any questions or concerns I had, which made the entire process far less stressful. They also demonstrated a remarkable ability to assess my situation and come up with an effective plan of action, ensuring everything went as smoothly as possible.Thanks to their dedication and attention to detail, I felt confident every step of the way. If you're looking for a reliable and knowledgeable team to help with your immigration needs, Isht and Rocio are the people to trust. I’m incredibly happy with the outcome and their excellent service!Would definitely work with them again if needed.
LOorts
17:44 30 Jan 25
Isht , Alyssa and Rocio have been wonderful in their assistance during the immigration procedures. Mr. Isht is in permanent contact and always provides the best legal advice possible . I highly recommend this firm for immigration and visas.
esteban rada
18:24 09 Jan 25
Quiero expresar mi comentario sobre el trabajo que realizaron los miembros de la firma de abogados Extraordinary Immigration PLLC, fue un trabajo verdaderamente Impecable y sumamente Profesional. Desde el primer momento en que tuve la oportunidad de entrevistarme con ellos, liderados por Isht Vatsa, tuve un consejo muy sincero y profesional sobre la mejor manera de llevar mi proceso para inmigración legal para los EEUU.Debo Felicitar el trabajo realizado por ellos, recomiendo absolutamente su trabajo y considero que su profesionalismo los distingue y los resultados de sus trabajos los avalan.
Gabriel Reategui
23:16 11 Dec 24
I researched many firms before deciding who to work with for my immigration process, and I can confidently say that choosing this team was the best decision. Working with Isht, Alyssa, and the incredible Rocio has been an outstanding experience. Their professionalism, attention to detail, and constant dedication made this journey so much smoother and more manageable. They were always attentive, providing support at every stage and ensuring everything went seamlessly. I highly recommend them for any immigration process; their commitment truly makes a difference.
Germán Ospina Roa
19:53 03 Dec 24
The team was a great resource for my immigration journey. Isht was very helpful at all times and at the end we were successful in my NIW application. Highly recommended!
Jorge Mercadante
23:31 27 Nov 24
Excellent and Responsible Immigration LawyersWe had the pleasure of working with Isht’s Team for our immigration case, and we couldn’t be more satisfied with their services. They are excellent, responsible, and conservative in their approach, ensuring that every detail is meticulously handled. Their professionalism and dedication to their clients are truly commendable. Additionally, they are comprehensive professionals with extensive experience and knowledge in the oil and gas sector. More than just your lawyers, they become your partners and companions, making the process manageable and less stressful. I highly recommend Extraordinary Immigration Law Firm to anyone in need of reliable immigration legal assistance.
Maria Eugeniaa Chacin Robles
02:07 01 Oct 24
I can’t thank Extraordinary Immigration enough for their exceptional help in securing my residency in the US. From the very beginning, they provided clear guidance and were always available to answer my questions, no matter how small. Thanks to their expertise and dedication, I received my permit in a relatively short time, which was such a relief. Their team made the entire process much smoother and less stressful. I highly recommend Extraordinary Immigration for anyone looking for professional and reliable immigration services.
Cristina Moya
19:22 27 Sep 24
Isht Vasta and Rocio Brown are phenomenal. I was so fortunate to be referred to their office through a colleague and I am forever in their debt. I personally experienced mal-practice by a former immigration attorney who had my adjustment of status in their hands and they let it fall through the cracks. Not only was Extraordinary Immigration able to pick up all the pieces left behind, they went above and beyond to assist me with providing a strong case to USCIS. They thought of every angle, and every questions before there was a chance to be asked. There wasn't a single hiccup in the process due to how thorough they were. I'm so relieved and happy that Isht was my attorney. I would recommend their office, professionalism, and genuine concern for humans to anyone else needing immigration services.
Gabriela Reyna
19:13 18 Sep 24
100% recommend Extraordinary Immigration! Great Job by Isht & Rocio for handling our E2 Visa in a professional and Very thorough manner. I have already recommended 3 other people to them for the Smooth, worry free & Professional job done. Thank you Isht & Rocio!
A. Mazda Enterprises
17:38 26 Aug 24
My experience with “Extraordinary Immigration” was incredible, they helped us in handling our immigration case with expertise from the initial consultation to the successful outcome, they demonstrated dedication and professionalism every step of the way.!!!
Ma. Cristina Duarte
18:34 22 Jun 24
I am well satisfied and thankful to Extraordinary Immigration for the very professional work performed from the beginning to the end in my family’s US residence process. I recommend their high-quality services to anyone.
Juan Eggers
23:03 04 Jun 24
I cannot praise Isht Vatsa and their team enough for the outstanding assistance they provided during my E-2 visa application process. From the initial consultation to the final approval, they demonstrated unmatched expertise and professionalism.Both Isht Vatsa and Rocio Brown meticulously guided me through every step of the complex E-2 visa procedure, ensuring that all documents were accurately prepared and submitted on time. Their in-depth knowledge of immigration law and dedication to client satisfaction truly set them apart.Moreover, the team at Extraordinary Immigration PLLC was incredibly responsive and supportive, promptly addressing all of my concerns and keeping me informed throughout the preparation process. Thanks to their diligent efforts, my E-2 visa was approved without any complications.I wholeheartedly recommend Isht to anyone seeking expert assistance with their immigration matters. Their commitment to excellence and personalized approach make them the go-to choice for navigating the intricacies of the E-2 visa application process.
Katherine Moron
21:16 14 May 24
I am delighted to recommend Extraordinary Immigration for anyone navigating the intricacies of immigration law. In my case, Isht and Alyssa were instrumental in helping me secure an EB2 NIW visa. Their professionalism and quality of work were simply flawless. Isht, Alyssa, and Rocío were always ready to answer queries and clarify doubts, ensuring smooth communication throughout the process. They were quick to reply, leaving no room for confusion or uncertainty.Their expertise and understanding of the law were evident in their meticulous handling of my case. They took the time to explain each step and provided clear and concise advice based on extensive experience.I am extremely satisfied with their service and would highly recommend them to anyone in need of top-notch legal assistance.
Daniel Chavez
22:18 21 Apr 24
I highly recommend the "Extraordinary Immigration" Law Firm for their knowledge, experience and professionalism that is demonstrated in the service they provide throughout the immigrant visa process, great work done!!
Omar Terrones Carrasco
14:34 29 Jan 24
Had a great experience with them. After a not very factual initial attempt to approve my I-140, the team worked hard for creating the best strategy and document the facts even using red and blue letters in my case to call the attention of the officials regarding key information. I highly recommended to work with Isht, the legal team and Rocio assisting.
Adriana Rodriguez
20:11 28 Dec 23
We were introduced to EO immigration through a mutual contact who guided us through to a successful visa.Working with Isht, Rocio and Alyssa was nothing but a pleasure. They were extremely professional and helped answer multiple questions we had.They were very honest and straight forward from the start giving us rounded advice on the potential hurdles of the process.Their guidance and submission was first class and we couldn’t recommend them highly enough.We would have had zero change of achieving this without their help and will be forever grateful for the opportunity they gave us.
Laura
19:08 21 Dec 23
Alyssia and Isht have been a great help in my journey to become a green card holder. Both have a profound knowledge to engage in all kind careers/field in the area of skilled categories (EBI,EB2 etc..) to the finish line by acquiring your immigration benefit. It is based on their vast ability that they dish out competence to deal with their clients from different cultures and backgrounds. they are fantastic and professional. Please try them and see and you will never regret doing business with them .Even if you are financially handicapped , they will work out something for you to actualize your immigration dream.. Appreciate both of you for your wonderful job that God has used you to do to get my green card for me. Thank you.
So Davids
15:46 08 Sep 23
I am delighted to share the success of my case achieved by Alyssa Giordano and her team. A lot of competence, assertiveness and creativity in handling each issue that arose throughout the my process. I felt totally welcomed and safe during this time and I strongly recommend your office
Helena Sampaio
12:35 23 Jun 23
I applied for my green card on EB2 category with Extraordinary Immigration PLLC (EI). I had a very complicated case due to my nationality resulted in many of the other companies I approached refusing to accept my case. Regardless of how complicated my case was, EI accepted my case with a very open mind and with full commitment to make it a success. And here I am with my I-140 approved now. EI stayed on my side on every requirement and response to RFEs and so on.It is worthwhile to mention that throughout the process, I introduced friends to EI with same complicated nationality, and those cases were approved as well.I truly recommend EI for those who want their lives changed by receiving their green card based on their abilities under EB1 and EB2. I have seen in my case and my friends' cases that EI delivered results.God Bless!
Arezoo Rezafar
01:05 25 May 23
100% recommended. The team at Extraordinary immigration is excellent, I talked with a hand full of Law Firms before starting my immigration process and they just convince me because of the personalized and hands on approach from the leading lawyers in each case. After about a year working with them I can't recommend them enough, great response times and professionalism. All was as expected and beyond.I got my process approved thanks to them and I'm just waiting the consular appointment.My family and I will always be very thankful with them and happy with my decision to make the process with their help.Daniel BorregoColombia
Daniel Borrego
15:41 07 May 23
shahraj raza
23:27 25 Apr 23
I am pleased to write a glowing review for the folks at Extraordinary Immigration, who were simply outstanding in every way. From start to finish, my experience with this firm was exceptional, and I couldn't be more grateful for the help that they provided throughout the immigration process. (Note: I have worked with 3 other immigration law firms in the past, so know what I'm talking about)Isht and Alyssa are both incredibly knowledgeable and skilled immigration attorneys who truly go above and beyond for their clients. They are attentive, responsive, and dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes. I was impressed by their expertise in the field and their ability to navigate complex issues.Throughout my case, the team provided clear and timely communication, keeping me informed every step of the way. They were patient, compassionate, and understanding, taking the time to listen to my concerns and answer any questions I had. I felt well supported throughout the entire process.Overall, I would highly recommend Extraordinary Immigration to anyone in need of immigration legal services. Isht and Alyssa are exceptional attorneys who have a deep understanding of the complexities of immigration law. They are dedicated, compassionate, and skilled, and I am so grateful for their help and support throughout my immigration journey. Thank you, Extraordinary, for your incredible work!
João Barbará (JB)
23:22 11 Apr 23
Highly Recommend EOI Law firm in NIW cases. Isht and Alyssa took over my case from a previous lawyer/preparer and responded an RFE that challenged all 3 prongs in a short period notice.They had to pretty much start over and re-do the whole case, and they did such a great job that My I-140 was approved within days of responding the RFE.I was always informed and all the dead lines and time frames where as in the agreement. This is indeed an Extraordinary Honest team of individuals , thank you for all your support and for really caring about people.
Paco B
02:29 06 Apr 23
I rarely give a review of a person or service over the internet. However, Alyssa Giordano and her immigration law firm are the best ones. I have known Alyssa for three and a half years, and she has been my attorney during this period for my EB2 NIW of Green Card applications. Alyssa and her law firm guided me through every step, from filling out applications to case approval and everything in between. She is an excellent attorney, extremely professional, very knowledgeable, and cares about her clients and attaining a positive outcome for her clients. To describe them in one sentence, they are Amazing, and I recommend Extraordinary immigration for any immigration services.
josue elizalde
15:30 27 Mar 23
Strongly recommend EI, both Alyssa and Isht are knowledgeable and accesible. Having worked with other immigration firms, it is rare to have this level of access and handholding throughout the process. EI has the resources of a large firm with the benefits of a boutique. Highly recommend EI as their counsel and guidance was instrumental to securing my green card a lot faster than expected.
Rodrigo Medrano
12:28 27 Mar 23
If you are reading this review, possibly you are trying to find a law firm to take care of your case. Yep: I know how it is and how certain circumstances of your life might disappoint you about your immigration status in US.After reaching out to 11 law firms, I had to hear from some attorneys that my case was not viable. Well….Alyssa was referred by a friend of mine: my EB-2 NIW case was filled on Feb 2nd and my I-140 was approved today (3/3/2023). Alyssa, Isht and Rocio are an amazing team.Still remember the day I received a list of Qs & As that I should address and a huge list of documents I should gather. Didn’t think twice: made all I could do…I worked hard…retrieved documents and data from 10, 15 years ago. Had to chase some key people to provide some reference letters and after sharing everything with Alyssa, they submitted the application 10/15 days later.There is a document called “Cover Letter” which is their assessment on your case, to be read by the USCIS agent. One day before the submission I read it in full and was chocked: that was pretty much a final paper that I’d never imagined would be produced. In summary, these guys are amazing in extracting the best of your life and use in your favor, in a strategic fashion.Alyssa, Isht and Rocio, thank you very much for all you guys did! Love to work with people like that. Way to go!One more note: They are very responsive - learned that some law firms are impossible to be contacted.
Alberto Rodrigues
05:48 04 Mar 23
Alyssa prepared my NIW petition and I am extremely happy about my choice of hiring her.If you want a lawyer who knows her field and is available when you need her, then you should definitely contact Alyssa. I have recommended her to all friends and colleagues who have come to me asking for advice on immigration lawyer.
Erlend Einarsen
00:38 02 Jan 23
Excellent experience! I worked with Isht for my EB-2 National Waiver Interest (NWI). He was extremely professional with all documentation required and he was always approachable and solved all my questions. Applied in October 2022 and got I-140 approved in December 2022.
Juan Hurtado
17:29 21 Dec 22
I've worked with Ms. Giordano and Mr. Vatsa on my I-140 case and I can't thank them enough because my case was approved! Initially I filed the petition myself but as I expected USCIS issued me an RFE. I am so glad to have found the abovementioned lawyers and I am super lucky because two highly qualified lawyers worked on my case which is so rare in law practice. That was an amazing experience because they came up with insightful strategies how to build my case. They gave a clear structure to my petition underlining all my strengths and achievements. Moreover, they both were so understandable and seemed to know first hand what it means to be an immigrant. I knew right away I was in good hands and I'll never forget how much time, efforts, knowledge, skills they invested into my petition. I wish them best of luck and so thankful for they chose to help people become part of this amazing society!
Slava Bolokhoev
00:18 22 Sep 22
Very helpful, candid, and open! Helped me through out my immigration process in a very thorough and organized manner...highly recommend!
Fahad Khan
21:25 03 Aug 22
Alyssa Giordano has handle my immigration process with dully care, professionally, managing expectation, working hard and being proactive. She is an excellent immigration attorney. I recommended her personal and professionally with no doubt.
Adriano Mucelli
16:44 22 Jun 22
Amazing lawyer, responsible, honest and commitment with your case, I recommended 100%
Juan Carlos Duque
13:38 07 Mar 22
We are so grateful to have Isht Vatsa and Alyssa Giordano as our attorneys for our immigration process. They went above and beyond to help us get the best outcome in our case, making the process easy and taking away all of the stress we had going about the immigration process. I'll always recommend them to friends or anyone that needs help. We all need guidance, security and to know that you are in the right hands to get things done fast and the right way! I couldn't ask for a better place to handle all of my legal needs.Thank you both for your passion and dedication to helping people like me.
Eze De Mario
01:34 18 Feb 22
Isht Vatsa (co founder) has been great during all my immigration process. He explained all the details of the application and has been on top of my case since the beginning. During the hole process he answered all our questions and quickly solved any issues that we had during the process. I will highly recommend him and Extraordinary Immigration PLLC!!
Alberto Ramirez
05:23 17 Feb 22
With no doubt in my mind, I write this testimonial in complete confidence that Isht and his team are the best when it comes to the very purpose of immigration needs. I have known Isht for over a year and a half now, and I am genuinely amazed at the passion, dedication, and professionalism Isht has exhibited. More than an attorney, Isht has been my mentor in many ways guiding us to the best decisions in our life. He is very detailed oriented, going over and beyond in whatever he does. Isht, is an excellent listener and well-versed in the law, economics, financial and political matters which played a critical role in constructing my immigration case - covering all aspects of the subject matter. When it comes to constructing the case for extraordinary ability, Isht took an extended effort to understand each piece of evidence. He went through a lot of research and study materials to ensure the construction of the case was represented and justified to the fullest. Secondly, Isht has a clear vision of how a case must be presented. He is like an artist planning out the final picture and laying out clear milestones for the client to achieve the final outcome. Isht always has a plan B and C, with the ultimate goal of presenting the pieces of evidence accurately in a detailed and structured manner that is immediately visible to an adjudicator.I would strongly recommend anyone interested in pursuing a green card to reach out to Isht and the Extraordinary Immigration firm – and have complete confidence that your case will be represented and justified as needed.Thank you, Isht, for your services and partnership - looking forward to seeing you and the form reach greater heights.CheersMathew
Mathew Abraham
17:56 11 Feb 22
My Green Card process was easy. Alyssa followed the whole process and guided me all the time. She always guided me with me readily in all my doubts. I strongly recommend this company!She is amazing!
Vanessa Pedote / Terapia com Arte
14:01 11 Feb 22
Alyssa has exceed my expectations as an Attorney. Because of her dedication and hard work my family's Immigration process has been running smoothly. She even helped me get my work permit and parole expedited. Because of all of her help I will be able travel abroad while my residency is still in process. Overall I highly recommend Alyssa and her team for any immigration inquiries.
valentina guzman
03:17 11 Feb 22
The best lawyer ever!I am very lucky to have Alyssa Giordano (Extraordinary Immigration Law Firm) as my lawyer, who has been handling my immigration cases over the years. She is very knowledgeable, trustworthy, caring, relentless and passionate person. Always works hard and fights for you to achieve the successful outcome. She stays on top of every process, updating me at every stage and reducing my anxiety!! Alyssa did an excellent job in getting approval for my NIW petition which was extremely critical and vital for me. I highly recommend her to everyone who needs sound legal advice. Thanks a lot again, Alyssa!
KAMALA SULEYMANOVA
01:38 11 Feb 22
I had the opportunity to receive support from Mr. Vatsa in the recent past, and can attest to his knowledge, professionalism and responsiveness. Results were delivered according to expectations, also because he had an active role in the process.
Enrico Zito
12:53 08 Feb 22
Mr. Isht has been very attentive and responsive to my questions and concerns throughout the petition process. My case is still pending with USCIS but I'm very positive about the outcome because I'm in good hands.
Tint Aung
01:57 07 Feb 22
I have had 2 important experiences with Alyssa Giordano as my lawyer and both of them were great, so much that we are continuing to working together.The counseling was thorough, detailed and we were successful on both experiences.Besides the knowledge, Alyssa is very client oriented and exceeds clients expectations.
ADRIANA Buchler
00:00 07 Feb 22
One of the best decisions I made is hiring Atty. Alyssa (Partner of Extraordinary Immigration). She is not only an excellent attorney but also professional who cares for her clients & trustworthy. The rapport and guidance was outstanding at all times, prompt, timely and open for calls and quick updates. She is very knowledgeable on immigration legal process and have laid down a clear path towards our goal. She also represented few of my colleagues and all have been successful on their petitions. Highly recommend Extraordinary Law firm for any immigration legal needs.
Dodie Tumbagahan
14:28 05 Feb 22
I have been working with Alyssa Giordano for my GC process which USCIS has arranged to make it harder and harder every day…. Alyssa has been there all she way, giving the extra mile to get the Job done, caring about the process and Family. She has always been available to respond to whatever crazy question I have.. she is very diligent and detailed oriented… you can trust her judgement, passion and hard work
Mauro Scacciati
13:45 05 Feb 22
Alyssa Giordano is an excellent immigration attorney professional! She successfully handled my EB-1 visa process setting the right expectations upfront and cordially carrying me on throughout the entire process.
Sergio Brutman
05:46 05 Feb 22
Alyssa is a great professional that takes into consideration all the details of this complex process. She has been always kind, attentive and focused on get the process completed on time and with best results. I strongly recommend working with her and her team.
CR JU
00:36 05 Feb 22
Alyssa and team have been diligent and on top of our immigration process. We cannot stress enough how professional and knowledgeable they are. They also understand your needs and have family values when dealing with clients. We highly recommended them.
Prashant Menon
20:43 04 Feb 22
Alyssa managed my NIW case for GC and she did a great job. Very professional and responsive.
Marcelo Santa Maria
20:42 04 Feb 22
If you are looking for a great immigration lawyer, look no further!Alyssa Giordano is truly amazing. She is not only extremely knowledgeable in the immigration field but also super attentive, dedicated and will treat your case carefully.Alyssa is a great communicator and will be guiding your thru the whole process, answering all your questions in detail.I am very glad I chose Alyssa as my immigration!
Celio Andrino
18:19 04 Feb 22
Alyssa was great throughout the entire process of getting my EB2- NIW approved. The work was made in a timely manner and she was always responsive on any questions I had. I highly recommend her services.
saulo sampaio
17:27 04 Feb 22
I’d like to thank Mr. Vatsa for the great professionalism in terms of visibility, organization and communication during the whole process of my Green Card application.Thankfully, we have reached our main goal - Green Card approved!
STEFANO CANTO SILVA
17:09 04 Feb 22
- Dozens of O-1 Approvals in science, tech, film, art, and academia
- Strategic Positioning to map your credentials to USCIS criteria
- Detailed Petition Briefs drafted for every case.
- Sponsor & Event Strategy built into your plan
- Full-service handling from initial consult to USCIS filing and through RFE response (if one is issued)
O-1 Visa FAQs — Answered
What is the O-1 visa?
The O-1 is a U.S. work visa for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in their field — including science, education, business, athletics, the arts, film, or television.
Unlike green card categories like the EB-1A, the O-1 is a temporary nonimmigrant visa, usually tied to a specific event or project in the U.S.
Who can qualify for an O-1 visa?
To qualify, you must show you’ve reached the top of your field and gained national or international recognition.
This can be through a major award (like a Nobel, Pulitzer, or Oscar) or by meeting at least 3 out of 8 USCIS criteria — such as media coverage, original work, high salary, or a critical role in a top organization.
What’s the difference between O-1A and O-1B?
O-1A is for professionals in science, education, business, or athletics
O-1B is for individuals in the arts, or those with extraordinary achievement in film or television
Each category has its own set of evidence standards based on the industry.
Can I renew my O-1 visa?
Yes. There is no cap on the number of times you can renew or extend your O-1 status.
As long as you continue qualifying and have a valid U.S. sponsor, you can apply for extensions tied to new projects or events.
What is your process for handling O-1 visa cases?
Here’s how we help write compelling letters ad revise them with you:
Resume Review – We assess your eligibility
Consultation – We define your field and U.S. activity (“event”)
Criteria Strategy – We choose the strongest USCIS criteria to pursue
Document Request – You complete a detailed Q&A and upload materials
Evidence Building – We research and gather objective documentation
Referee Guidance – We help identify strong reference letter signers
Letter Drafting – We write compelling letters and revise them with you
Dossier Compilation – We organize awards, media, research, and more
Petition Prep – We draft all forms and a legal brief highlighting your ability
Filing & Follow-Up – We submit the petition and monitor until approval
Do I need a U.S. sponsor to apply for the O-1?
Yes. A U.S. sponsor is required for the O-1 visa. This can be an established company, university, or even a startup, depending on your project or field of work.
The sponsor doesn’t have to be your direct employer — it can also act as an agent on your behalf.
What kind of evidence is needed to prove “extraordinary ability”?
Some examples of acceptable evidence include:
Major awards or nominations
National/international media coverage
Speaking roles or performances with distinguished organizations
Original contributions, patents, or research
A history of high compensation
Articles published in scholarly or industry-leading publications
Leadership roles in respected institutions
Critical reviews or endorsements from industry experts
We’ll help identify and organize your strongest evidence.
Can an O-1 Visa Lead to Permanent Residency?
The O-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa, so it does not directly lead to permanent residency. However, many O-1 visa holders later pursue an immigrant visa category, such as the EB-1A Extraordinary Ability, or the EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW), to obtain a green card.
Can I expedite my O-1 visa application?
Yes. The O-1 is eligible for premium processing. This means USCIS will review your petition within 15 calendar days if you file Form I-907 and pay the premium processing fee.
Can I bring my family with an O-1 visa?
Yes, you may bring your spouse and children under the age of 21. However, please note, as O-3 dependents, neither your spouse nor your children will have employment authorization. They will be able to attend educational institutions.
Take the first step:
Request A Evaluation
- Discuss the visa options of interest to you
- General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options
- Information on Extraordinary Immigration fees, terms and process
- Full clarity and transparency every step along the way
