Report an Issue
We read every report and respond
🇺🇸 United States · O-1 Visa
3 mandatory requirements, 1 supporting factor, and 7 core documents — here is exactly what United States expects.
Missing any of these disqualifies an application outright — confirm them before investing in fees or document preparation.
Must demonstrate extraordinary ability (O-1A: sciences/education/business/athletics) or extraordinary achievement (O-1B: arts/film/TV)
Must have a US employer, US agent, or foreign employer through a US agent willing to file the O-1 petition
Must be coming to the US to perform services in the area of extraordinary ability
Not strictly required, but each strengthens your case — the weight shown reflects how heavily our scoring engine (and in practice, adjudicators) value it.
For O-1B arts category, must obtain an advisory opinion from a peer group, labor organization, or person with expertise
Valid Passport
Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the requested O-1 period
Evidence of Extraordinary Ability / Achievement
Documentation meeting O-1A or O-1B criteria: awards, publications, critical role evidence, salary comparisons, media coverage
Advisory Opinion Letter
Written advisory opinion from a peer group or recognized expert (required for O-1B arts)
Itinerary / Schedule of Events
Detailed itinerary of activities, performances, engagements, or employment during the O-1 period
Employment Contract or Engagement Agreement
Signed contract or summary of oral agreement between petitioner and beneficiary
Expert Reference Letters
Letters from recognized peers, colleagues, or experts attesting to extraordinary ability
Resume / CV
Comprehensive resume or curriculum vitae
Official source: government website. See also: costs & fees and processing time.
Answer a few questions and get scored against this pathway — and the other 46 we track across the US, Canada, UK, and Australia. Free, no credit card.
Check my eligibility — freeFree eligibility check
Get your personalized eligibility report for the US, Canada, UK, and Australia — scored against today's actual rules. No credit card needed.
We only email you about your report and major rule changes. Unsubscribe anytime.