O-1 EXTRAORDINARY ABILITY

The O-1 visa is for foreign nationals of “extraordinary ability” in science, business, education, or athletics, the arts, or the motion picture or television industry, to work temporarily in the United States. 

There are three different standards of “extraordinary ability”.  The highest standard is in the sciences, business, education, and athletics.  The least exacting standard is in the arts; an intermediate standard for the O-1 in the motion picture or television industry.

The initial approval period can be up to three years, with extensions year by year without limit.

The spouse and unmarried minor children of the O-1 beneficiary are eligible for the O-3 visa, which does not allow employment.