Applying for an
‍O-1 Visa in the US?

Find immigration lawyers who can secure your O-1 Visa and guide your path toward permanent residency.

Show your extraordinary ability.
Secure your future in the U.S.

VISALAWS IS PARTNERED WITH LAWYERS ACROSS THE UNITED STATES

1,100+ Immigrants secured visas with VisaLaws

Real lawyers. Real results.

Start Your O-1 Visa Journey. Secured with VisaLaws.

Don’t let bureaucracy delay your dreams. Begin your O-1 Visa process now and let your legal team build a strong case in the background. While you focus on your talent and career, VisaLaws connects you to lawyers who specialize in visas for extraordinary individuals.

Why choose O-1 Visas

What is the O-1 Visa and Who is it For?

The O-1 Visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, athletics, or for those with distinguished achievements in motion picture and television. It allows top performers and industry leaders from around the world to live and work in the U.S. based on their talent and achievements. Typically issued for up to three years and renewable in one-year increments, the O-1 Visa provides unique flexibility for professionals at the peak of their fields.

Visa applicants this year

Thousands apply every year. These are just a few we've helped connect with trusted immigration lawyers.

Tunde O. - Boston, Ma

Priya M. - Chicago, IL

Wei Z. - San Francisco, CA

Camila R. - Austin, TX

Start Your Journey

Application Submitted

Lawyer assigned. Visa in progress.

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How VisaLaws Helps You Secure Your O-1 Faster

The O-1 Visa requires extensive documentation, from awards and publications to letters of recommendation and evidence of international recognition. VisaLaws connects you with seasoned immigration attorneys who know how to build airtight petitions, avoid costly mistakes, and maximize your approval chances. Whether you’re an artist, scientist, athlete, or entrepreneur, our lawyers are equipped to highlight your accomplishments and deliver results.

Visa progress

Olena V.

Fintech & Cybernetics

Moved from Ukraine to pursue cybernetics - now in Silicon Valley

100%

Approved

Green card status

35% complete

Adjustment of status underway
Filed: May 2025
Expected: Feb 2026

Why VisaLaws

Built Only for Immigrants

VisaLaws is building the largest network of immigration lawyers dedicated to helping immigrants succeed. With a tailored approach for O-1 applicants, our platform ensures you get the fastest results possible with strategies customized to your achievements and career goals.

Juan C.

Software Engineer

VISA TYPE

Green Card

ELIGIBILTY STATUS

ELIGIBLE

TIMELINE

2-3 months

Green Card Path

How the O-1 Visa Leads to Permanent Residency

Many O-1 Visa holders eventually transition to a green card through employment-based categories such as EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) or EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver). VisaLaws helps you not only secure your O-1 status but also plan the path toward permanent residency and, ultimately, U.S. citizenship. Your talent doesn’t just open doors — it creates a future.

Chat

Hey Joseph, is this the right step to get my citizenship? What is the fastest path to a Green Card?

•••

Green card status

75% complete

Adjustment of status underway
Filed: July 2025
Expected: March 2026

Green Card Success

Santiago R.

Ivana P.

Kwame M.

Discuss your path

What Happens Next

Find Your Lawyers

Skip the uncertainty. With VisaLaws, you can connect directly with verified immigration attorneys who focus on O-1 Visas and green card transitions. Send a message, schedule a consultation, and start your journey with professionals who know how to showcase your extraordinary ability.

Find lawyers

Zoe Zhang-Louie

details

zoe@zllawoffice.com

Phone #

+18577535818

U.S. City

Boston, MA

Visa Focus

Business & Investment

Years Exp.

10yrs

Language

ES, PT, ZH, FR

Example Message

"Hi, I'm Zoe, an immigration lawyer in Boston. I've reviewed your case and can help you get started."

Your immigration success starts here. Join thousands who trust VisaLaws to secure their visa

Don't lose time. Start your journey today.

FAQ

Common O-1 visa Q's

What is an O-1 Visa?

The O-1 Visa is a U.S. nonimmigrant visa for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, athletics, or film and television. It requires proof of national or international acclaim and allows recipients to temporarily live and work in the U.S.

Who qualifies for an O-1 Visa?

To qualify, applicants must demonstrate sustained acclaim in their field. This includes evidence such as awards, membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement, published material, leading roles, high salary, or other comparable recognition of extraordinary ability.

What’s the difference between O-1A and O-1B Visas?

The O-1A Visa is for individuals in sciences, education, business, or athletics. The O-1B Visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in motion pictures and television.

How long is the O-1 Visa valid?

An O-1 Visa is typically granted for the duration of the event, project, or employment — up to three years initially. It can then be extended in one-year increments as long as the individual continues to work in their extraordinary field.

Can O-1 Visa holders bring family to the U.S.?

Yes. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can accompany O-1 Visa holders through O-3 Visas. While O-3 dependents cannot work, they may study in the U.S.

Can an O-1 Visa lead to a green card?

Yes. Many O-1 Visa holders transition to permanent residency via the EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability Green Card) or EB-2 NIW. The O-1 is often considered a strong pathway toward a green card because it demonstrates a high level of achievement.

How do I prove extraordinary ability for an O-1 Visa?

You must submit evidence such as international or national awards, published media coverage, original contributions of major significance, critical roles at distinguished organizations, high salary, or peer recognition. Attorneys help frame and present these achievements effectively.

Is a job offer required for an O-1 Visa?

Yes, you must have a U.S. employer or agent as a petitioner. Unlike some visas, you cannot self-petition for the O-1, though an agent can represent multiple employers if needed.

How fast can I get an O-1 Visa?

Processing times vary, but with premium processing you can receive a decision in 15 days. Regular processing may take 2–3 months. Strong, well-prepared petitions move faster and avoid costly delays.

Can O-1 Visa holders work for multiple employers?

Yes, but each employer must file a separate petition or an agent can represent multiple employers. Your O-1 status is tied to the specific terms of your approved petition.

What’s the difference between O-1 and H-1B Visas?

The O-1 Visa is for extraordinary individuals with recognized talent, while the H-1B Visa is for specialty occupation workers with at least a bachelor’s degree. The O-1 has no lottery and no annual cap, making it a strong option for highly skilled professionals.

What is the cost of filing an O-1 Visa?

Filing fees include the I-129 petition fee, currently $460, plus optional premium processing at $2,805. Attorney fees vary based on case complexity. Investing in legal expertise greatly improves approval chances.

Can O-1 Visa holders apply for permanent residency while in the U.S.?

Yes, they can apply for a green card without leaving the U.S. through adjustment of status. Many transition directly to the EB-1A or EB-2 NIW categories.

Can O-1 Visa holders change employers?

Yes, but a new petition must be filed by the new employer or agent. Until approval, you must remain with your current authorized employer.

Is there an annual cap on O-1 Visas?

No. Unlike the H-1B Visa, the O-1 has no numerical cap, making it an excellent option for qualified applicants without worrying about a lottery system.

Why was my O-1 Visa denied?

Denials often stem from insufficient evidence of extraordinary ability, poorly documented achievements, lack of peer recognition, or inadequate legal presentation. Working with an experienced lawyer helps overcome these challenges.

Can I travel internationally on an O-1 Visa?

Yes. O-1 Visa holders can travel internationally and re-enter the U.S. as long as their visa and petition remain valid. Always carry proper documentation when traveling.

What happens if my O-1 Visa extension is denied?

If denied, you must stop working immediately and depart the U.S. unless you secure another valid immigration status. Having legal support reduces the risk of denials and prepares fallback strategies.

Is premium processing worth it for O-1 Visas?

For most applicants, yes. Premium processing provides a 15-day response, which is critical for time-sensitive opportunities in entertainment, athletics, or research. It also helps applicants plan international travel and career moves with certainty.

Can O-1 Visa holders apply for U.S. citizenship?

Indirectly, yes. O-1 holders can transition to permanent residency through EB-1A or EB-2 NIW. After maintaining green card status for five years, they may apply for naturalization and U.S. citizenship.

Secure Your O-1 Visa

Take action now to protect your career and your future. Experienced immigration lawyers are ready to help you prepare a winning O-1 petition and guide your path to permanent residency.

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Don't wait - your talents
deserves recognition today.

Applying for an
‍O-1 Visa in the US?

Secure Your O-1 Visa Today

VISALAWS IS PARTNERED WITH LAWYERS ACROSS THE UNITED STATES