The O-1 visa classification is intended for individuals with
proven extraordinary skills and ability in the sciences, arts,
education, business or athletics to the level of national or
international notoriety. O-1 applicants must present extensive
documentation that demonstrates that they have received recognition
of their extraordinary abilities and/or achievements from qualified,
objective sources in their occupational field. O-1 status may be
granted for a maximum of three years at a time, and may be renewed
indefinitely. Similar to other temporary nonimmigrant worker visas,
an O-1 petition is filed by a U.S. employer seeking an individual
with extraordinary skills and ability. The petitioning employer must
submit evidence that the individual meets the established O-1
criteria, that the position offered requires extraordinary ability
and that the individual is coming to the U.S. to work in the area of
extraordinary ability.
