What are the O1 Visa Requirements?

FRONTMARCH 2, 2025 / IN BLOGS, O1 VISA, TR

Asım Kılınç, Immigration Lawyer, CK Law Firm

The O1 visa is a prestigious immigrant visa that allows individuals with extraordinary abilities to permanently reside in the United States. This visa type is designed for individuals who have achieved international recognition, particularly in fields such as the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.

• What is an O1 Visa?
• What are the differences between O1-A and O1-B visas?
• What are the requirements to apply for an O1-A visa?
• What are the requirements to apply for an O1-B visa?

If you have any questions about the O1 visa type other than these, please remember that you can contact me via the comments section below this article, by sending me a message directly on LinkedIn, or through the website of CK Law Firm, the immigration law firm of which I am a founding partner.

What is an O1 Visa?

The Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement (OAB) visa is a temporary employment visa available to individuals who have achieved success in the fields of science, the arts, athletics, business, or education, meeting criteria established by the USCIS. There are two types of this visa: O1-A and O1-B.

What are the differences between O1-A and O1-B visas?

O-1A and O-1B visas are visas issued to individuals with extraordinary abilities in the United States, but each type of visa is intended for individuals specializing in different fields. Here are the key differences between the O-1A and O-1B visas:

O-1A Visa

• The O-1A visa is for individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields such as science, education, business, or athletics.
• The applicant must demonstrate outstanding achievements in their field through internationally recognized awards, publications, or other significant achievements.
• This visa covers a wide range of professionals and is preferred by scientists, academics, recognized business leaders, senior executives, and professional athletes.

O-1B Visa

• The O-1B visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities in the arts, motion picture, or television industries.
• Evidence must be provided to demonstrate exceptional talent in the arts, film, or TV industries, such as winning major awards or involvement in widely recognised projects.
• This visa is preferred by actors, singers, dancers, directors, musicians, and other artists.

What are the requirements to apply for an O1-A visa?

When applying for an O-1A visa, USCIS requires applicants to meet specific criteria to demonstrate extraordinary abilities. An O-1A visa applicant must meet at least three of the following eight criteria:

• Condition 1: To have won a nationally or internationally recognized award(s) in their field, demonstrating exceptional abilities and a prominent position in their field.
• Condition 2: To be reported on in well-known publications or media that highlight the applicant's achievements and recognition in the field.
• Condition 3: Having served as a jury member evaluating the work of others in their field or a related field.
• Condition 4: Having made significant scientific, academic, or commercial contributions to the field.
• Condition 5: Membership in recognized professional associations where only individuals of exceptional achievement may become members.
• Condition 6: To have published work in recognized professional or commercial publications or media in their field.
• Condition 7: Having received a high wage or salary compared to others in the field.
• Condition 8: Achieving recognized commercial or professional success in the field.

Applicants who meet at least three of these criteria may qualify for an O-1A visa. USCIS carefully evaluates each application and expects the applicant to clearly demonstrate exceptional abilities and achievements in their field.

What are the requirements to apply for an O1-B visa?

The O-1B visa is granted to individuals who possess extraordinary abilities in the arts or film and television. USCIS requires O-1B visa applicants to meet at least three of the following six criteria:

• Condition 1: To have played a leading or important role in a well-known production, demonstrating artistic talent and recognition.
• Condition 2: Having received praise from well-known critics, organizations, or media outlets.
• Condition 3: Achieving commercial success or making significant contributions through work with a recognized organization or institution.
• Condition 4: Participating in artistic activities organized by a recognized institution, organization, or government agency.
• Condition 5: Being offered or earning a high salary in the field.
• Condition 6: Holding a leading or significant role in recognized art groups, organizations, or collaborations.

Applicants who meet at least three of these criteria may be eligible for an O-1B visa. USCIS requires applicants to provide sufficient documentation and evidence demonstrating extraordinary talent in the arts or film/television.

Applying for an O1 visa can be a complex process, but by following the correct steps and providing the necessary documentation, you can increase your chances of success. You can also contact me directly through LinkedIn or cklawfirm.org to learn about your eligibility for the O1 visa through our free consultation. Simply send us your CV, and we'll review it and get back to you within 24 hours.

Who is Lawyer Asım Kılınç?

Attorney Asım Kılınç, founding partner of CK Law Firm, is known for his expertise in immigration law and U.S. asylum applications. Having completed his master's degree from Southern Methodist University's Dedman School of Law, Kılınç is a member of the Missouri Bar Association and focuses primarily on U.S. immigration law.

Attorney Kılınç's in-depth knowledge and experience in immigration law significantly contribute to CK Law Firm's success in this field. Having actively participated in the preparation of over 1,000 immigration cases, he has proven his expertise in this field. He provides comprehensive and professional legal support to his clients, facilitating their adaptation to their new lives in the US.

Attorney Kılınç also possesses extensive knowledge regarding US asylum applications. He meticulously guides his asylum applicants throughout the process, ensuring they receive the best legal advice. He provides his clients with the highest quality service in citizenship, Green Card, work permit, and other immigration processes, supporting them throughout the entire process from inception to US citizenship.

Reinforcing CK Law Firm's leadership in immigration law and US asylum applications, Attorney Asım Kılınç provides his clients with reliable and effective legal consultancy services, supporting them on their journey to establishing a new life in the US.