Who the O-1 is for
#- Individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in their field
- Applicants with a U.S. employer or agent sponsor
- Workers who can document significant accomplishments and recognition
Evidence categories to prepare
#O-1 petitions rely on multiple evidence categories (awards, media, critical roles, high salary, or comparable evidence). Review the USCIS guidance for category details.
Requirements checklist (high level)
#- USCIS petition filed by a U.S. employer or agent
- Evidence of extraordinary ability or achievement
- Completed DS-160 for consular processing (if applying abroad)
- Consular interview and required documents
Documents and evidence
#Petitions require evidence demonstrating extraordinary ability. Applicants should also keep DS-160 confirmation and supporting documents for the interview step.
U.S. documents checklistO-1 evidence checklistReview Form I-129 guidanceStep-by-step overview
#- Employer or agent files the O-1 petition with USCIS.
- If applying abroad, complete the DS-160 and schedule a consular interview.
- Attend the interview with required documentation.
- Travel after visa issuance and follow entry guidance.
Fees (verify before you pay)
#O-1 fees include USCIS petition filing fees and Department of State visa application fees for consular processing. Always confirm the latest fee schedules.
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • USCIS filing fees
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • Visa fee schedule (Department of State)
Processing times
#Processing time depends on USCIS petition timelines and consular appointment availability. Use official tools to check current ranges.
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • USCIS processing times tool
Last verified: 2026-02-02 • Visa appointment wait times (Department of State)
Common mistakes that cause delays
#- Submitting weak or incomplete evidence of extraordinary ability
- Inconsistent dates or details between petition and DS-160
- Waiting too long to schedule an interview
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
Is the O-1 visa employer-sponsored?
Yes. The O-1 visa requires a U.S. employer or agent to file a petition with USCIS on your behalf.
Where can I check USCIS processing times?
Use the official USCIS processing times tool for petition timelines.
Do I need to attend a consular interview?
Applicants outside the U.S. typically complete the DS-160 and attend a consular interview after USCIS approval.
What qualifies as extraordinary ability for O-1?
You must show sustained national or international acclaim through awards, media coverage, critical roles, or comparable evidence depending on your field.
Is a consultation letter required?
Most O-1 petitions require a consultation from a peer group or labor organization in your field.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-29
- O-1 visa: individuals with extraordinary ability (USCIS)
- Working in the United States (USCIS)
- Visa interview information (Department of State)
- Visa denials (Department of State)
- DS-160 online application (Department of State)
- Visa fee schedule (Department of State)
- USCIS filing fees
- USCIS processing times tool
- Visa appointment wait times (Department of State)
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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