O-1 extraordinary ability service
For applicants demonstrating extraordinary ability in their field
The O-1 visa is for people who can demonstrate extraordinary ability or achievement in an eligible field and will work in that area in the United States. The petition itself is filed by a U.S. employer, a U.S. agent, or a company — including one the beneficiary owns — never by the beneficiary personally.
Answer questions about the petitioner, the beneficiary, the engagement, and the required consultation, and Haven prepares Form I-129 with the O and P Classifications Supplement plus an evidence checklist organized around the regulatory criteria. Be clear-eyed about what the form is: an O-1 is decided on the evidence and the written advisory opinion, not on the paperwork, and whether a record clears the "small percentage at the top of the field" bar is a legal judgment an attorney should make.
2 forms covered by this service
Answer clear questions at your own pace before reviewing your forms
Your answers are saved on this device while you work
Forms for this service
The O and P Classifications Supplement is part of Form I-129 itself. The filing fee depends on who petitions: the I-129 fee plus the Asylum Program Fee, both reduced or waived for small employers and nonprofits.
Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker — including the O and P Classifications Supplement
G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions
FAQ
Answers below are summarized from official USCIS or U.S. Department of State guidance linked with each item.
No. The regulation says an O-1 petition may only be filed by a U.S. employer, a U.S. agent, or a foreign employer through a U.S. agent, and that an O alien may not petition for himself or herself. A company the beneficiary owns may petition, because it is a separate legal person — that is the usual founder route. The extraordinary-ability green card (EB-1A, Form I-140) does allow self-petitioning.
Source: 8 CFR 214.2(o)(2)(i)USCIS says the O-1 nonimmigrant visa is for people with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or extraordinary achievement in motion picture or television work.
Source: USCIS: O-1 Visa: Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or AchievementUSCIS says the initial period of stay can be up to three years, and extensions are generally granted in increments of up to one year to complete the same event or activity.
Source: USCIS: O-1 Visa: Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or AchievementUsually yes. USCIS says a spouse and unmarried children under 21 may be eligible for O-3 classification with the same period of admission limits as the principal applicant.
Source: USCIS: O-1 Visa: Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement