Requirements for an O1 Visa

Each O-1 visitor must be the beneficiary of a petition approved by the Department of Homeland Security prior to visa issuance.  An O-1 petition must be filed by a US employer, a US sponsoring organization, a US agent, or a foreign employer through a US agent.  O1 visas may be granted to visitors who are coming temporarily to the United States:

The O-1 category applies to any of the following:

(1) An individual alien who has extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics which has been demonstrated by sustained national or international acclaim, and who is coming to the United States to continue work in the area of extraordinary ability; or

(2) An alien who has a demonstrated record of extraordinary achievement in motion picture and/or television productions, and who is coming to the United States to continue work in the area of extraordinary achievement; or

(3) An alien who is coming to the United States to perform in the motion picture and television industry.

How to Apply for an O1 Visa

Please refer to How to Apply for a Visa. 

The Day of your Interview at the Applicant Service Center

In addition to the requirements listed on How to Apply for a Visa, please bring an original or copy of your USCIS approved I-797 petition.

The Day of your interview at the Consulate

In addition to the requirements listed on How to Apply for a Visa, please bring an original or copy of your USCIS approved I-797petition.  If your visa application is approved and assuming no administrative processing is required, you will be asked to pay the $125 reciprocity fee at the Consular Section’s cashier prior to visa issuance.