O-1 Extraordinary Ability Requirement
To qualify for an O-1 visa, the beneficiary must demonstrate extraordinary ability by sustained national or international acclaim.
O-1A (science, education, business, athletics)
Extraordinary ability for O-1A applicants means that they must be one of the small percentage at the top of their field. This can be shown by the following:
1. Receiving a major, internationally-recognized award (i.e. Nobel Prize)
2. Fulfilling 3 of the following:
- Receive nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards
- Memberships that require outstanding achievements as judged by experts
- Publications in professional or major media such as newpapers
- Original and major professional contributions
- Employment in critical role for distinguished organizations
- Judged the work of others in field
- High salary in field
- Author of articles in professional journals or other major media
3. Providing other evidence that shows that applicant is the top in their field
O-1B (motion picture, television)
Extraordinary ability for O-1B applicants means that they have recognition and skill above peers and that they are outstanding or notable. This can be shown by the following:
O-1B (arts)
Extraordinary ability for O-1B applicants means that they must have distinction, defined by having recognition and skill above peers and being renowned, leading, or well-known in their field. This can be shown by the following:
O-1B Requirements
1. Receiving major, national, or international award (i.e. Academy Award, Emmy, Grammy, Director Guild Award)
2. Fulfilling 3 of the following:
- Performed and will perform in a lead role or starring participant in reputable productions or events
- Performed and will perform in a lead, starring, or critical role in distinguished organizations
- Achieved national or international recognition for achievements
- Record of major commercial or critically acclaimed successes
- Received significant recognition for achievements from organization, critics, or other experts
- High salary or other remuneration for services in field
3. Providing other evidence that shows the applicant is the top in their field