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The O-1 Visa for Extraordinary Ability in the Arts and Sciences



The O-1 or “extraordinary ability” visa is a 3-year visa for foreign artists, scientists and athletes who are highly accomplished in their fields. This employment-based visa requires a valid job offer and the participation of the prospective employer.

To be eligible for the visa the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) requires documentary evidence, such as letters of recommendation and award certificates, to show that the candidate possesses extraordinary ability in his/her field and is well recognized for his/her accomplishments.

Specific evidence should include at least three of the following:

  • Internationally or nationally recognized prizes or awards;
  • Published material about the candidate’s work;
  • Membership in an association that requires members to have outstanding achievement;
  • Original scientific, scholarly, or business-related contributions of major significance in the field;
  • Authorship of scholarly articles published in any type of major media or professional journals;
  • High salary or any other type of compensation;
  • Participation on a panel, or as a judge for other people’s works;
  • Evidence of past employment in an essential capacity for organizations that have a high reputation.

    The applicant will also need to provide a contract with her employer that describes the terms and conditions of services he/she will perform, or a summary of the terms of an oral agreement.

    The initial period of stay for an O-1 visa is a maximum of three years, but extensions of stay can be granted indefinitely in increments of up to one year. Spouses and children of an O-1 visa holder are eligible for admission to the United States on an O-3 visa. Dependents must also show proof of the family relationship in order to get an approval for O-3. Although they are not permitted to work, O-3 holders may attend school.

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