Law Offices of Patrick C. McGuinness, LLC

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Law Offices of Patrick C. McGuinness, LLC

O-1 Nonimmigrant Visa Lawyer Plainfield, New Jersey - Law Offices of Patrick C. McGuinness, LLC

Extraordinary Ability Visa Requirements & Application Process

If you are at the top of your field, globally sought after to perform your craft, relieve yourself of the worry of filing the proper employment paperwork. With the assistance of a knowledgeable O-1 nonimmigrant visa lawyer, the process of applying to legally work in the United States can be streamlined, leaving you to focus on your area of expertise.

Contact the Law Offices of Patrick C. McGuinness today to schedule a virtual consultation with a skilled nonimmigrant visa lawyer in Plainfield, New Jersey.

O-1 Visa Requirements

If you are at the top of your industry, the U.S. wants to welcome you to do business in the States. However, before they grant you an O-1 visa, they first want to determine you really are one of a kind.

To qualify for an O-1 visa, you must be an expert in the arts, entertainment, sports, business, education, technology, or sciences industries. To demonstrate this, you must provide sufficient evidence that you meet at least three of the below O-1 eligibility requirements:

  1. Have national or international recognition for performing at the highest levels in your field;
  2. Serve as a member of an association that requires exceptional achievement, as judged by experts in your industry;
  3. Have had your work featured in high-profile or pertinent industry publications;
  4. Served as a peer judge or reviewer in your specified field, or another closely related field;
  5. Have been published in notable professional publications;
  6. Have made scientific, academic, or business contributions of major significance in your field;
  7. Served as a leader or in a critical role for a highly regarded organization in your field;
  8. Command high compensation for your services; or
  9. Additional pertinent evidence of extraordinary expertise in your field.

In addition to the above, the below qualifications you may demonstrate your expertise in the industry of arts and entertainment:

  1. Having played lead or starring roles for distinguished productions or events;
  2. Having a history of major commercial or critically acclaimed success; or
  3. Achieving significant recognition from organizations, critics, government agencies, or other experts in the arts and entertainment industry.

O-1 Visa Application Process

Following U.S. nonimmigrant visa law, the process of applying for an O-1 visa generally takes three to four months. All required documentation and supporting evidence should be submitted at least 45 days before the date of entry you are seeking.

For a fee of $2,500, premium processing can be requested to expedite the timeline to 15 calendar days. If the petition is not processed within the 15-day window, your fee will be

reimbursed and the Department of United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will continue to expedite your request.

A U.S. company or agent must file a petition with USCIS on your behalf. To do so, they must complete an I-129 petition for a nonimmigrant worker. As the applicant, you will also complete a DS-160 nonimmigrant visa application.

In addition to the required immigration forms, the following must be completed:

  • Pay applicable application fees.
  • Schedule visa interview at a U.S. Embassy.
  • Gather required documentation.
  • Attend an Embassy interview and submit documentation.

During your appointment at the U.S. Embassy, you will need to present a valid passport, current photo, and required evidence, demonstrating your expertise. You will be interviewed regarding your qualifications and why your presence is required in the U.S. to continue your work. The interview is one of the most important steps in the O-1 application process.

An attorney experienced in the lawful nonimmigrant visa application process will prepare you for a successful interview, as well as ensure your documentation is submitted according to O-1 nonimmigrant visa law.

O-2 & O-3 Visa Support

Under U.S. nonimmigrant visa law, your support team may apply to accompany you. O-2 and O-3 nonimmigrant visas are granted to immediate family members, dependents, and those assisting in the work of the O-1 nonimmigrant visa applicant.

A knowledgeable O-2 visas lawyer can assist you in gathering and submitting the proper documentation, as well as through the additional application process.

Are you of extraordinary ability in your field, looking to work in the U.S.? Or do you represent an organization that wishes to acquire the talents of an individual who is top in your field? Contact the Law Offices of Patrick C. McGuinness today to have your O-1 and O-2 visa questions answered.

Law Offices of Patrick C. McGuinness, LLC

Get Your Questions Answered Today
(908) 645-1006

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