HOW TO GET AN O-1 VISA.

As immigrants to the United States, we understand the issues that foreign nationals encounter when crossing the border, applying for visas, finding employment in a new country and relocating.  It is a stressful time in your life and having your visa matters go smoothly is extremely important.

We also realize that many foreign born actors and other artists have not yet won an Academy award or Grammy award.  We know how to use other evidence to qualify you for an entertainment visa.  We work one on one with our clients.  You are never passed off to a paralegal or secretary to prepare your case.

WHY CONSULT A LOS ANGELES IMMIGRATION LAW FIRM?

We are where you want to be.  We know how to get here.  We have personal experience in the immigration process and the entertainment industry.  We understand your logistical requirements as well as your legal requirements.

We know how to navigate the complex entertainment visa requirements.  We know how to quickly and effectively obtain union consultation letters prior to submitting your O-1 visa application to USCIS.  We understand the types of documentation you will have and what to ask you for.

WE WILL HELP YOU GET YOU GET ORGANIZED AND ANALYZE YOUR CREDENTIALS.

We will advise you on how to make your application stronger.  We will develop and implement a thorough plan for accomplishing your immigration goals.

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BENEFITS OF THE “O” VISA

You can enter the U.S. and accept employment in a position which requires people of extraordinary ability.

You do not have to maintain a foreign residence and show intent to return to your home country while applying for the visa.

Your dependents can stay with you as long as you maintain your O1 status. They can also attend school.

You can freely travel in and out of the U.S. provided you have a valid visa.

• HOW TO GET AN ``O`` VISA
• Criteria for the O-1 Visa(s)
• Criteria for the O-2 Visa
• O-3 Visas for Family of O-1 and O-2 Visa Holders
• RELATED PAGES:

HOW TO GET AN “O” VISA

O-1 VISA: INDIVIDUALS OF EXTRAORDINARY ABILITY OR ACHIEVEMENT

The O-1 nonimmigrant visa is for individuals who possesses extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or who has a demonstrated record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.

The O visa is separated into different categories and has slightly different criteria and requirements depending on the type of extraordinary ability and work to be performed.

The O-1A visa is intended for those individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics ( not including those working in the arts, motion pictures or television industry.)

The O-1B visa is for those individuals who will work in the arts, motion picture or television industry who can show a demonstrated record of distinction in the arts or extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.

The O-2 visa is for individuals who will accompany an O-1 artist or athlete to assist the O-1 visa holder in a specific event or performance.

The O-3 visa is available to the spouse and unmarried minor children of O-1 and O-2 visa holders.

To qualify for an O-1 visa in the sciences, education, business or athletics, the beneficiary must demonstrate that they have a level of expertise showing they are in a small percentage of those who have risen to the top of their field of endeavor.

To qualifiy for an O-1 visa in the arts, the beneficiary must demonstrate distinction which is considered to be a high level of achievement in the field of the arts evidenced by a degree of skill and recognition substantially above that ordinarily encountered; the artist must show they are prominent in their field.  While distinction in the field must be established for those in the arts, it is a lower standard than than for those in the sciences, education, business or athletics.

To qualify for an O-1 visa for work in the motion picture or television industry, the beneficiary must demonstrate extraordinary achievement which is characterized as a very high level of accomplishment in the motion picture or television industry.  They must illustrate a degree of skill and recognition significantly above that ordinarily encountered to the extent the person is recognized as outstanding or notable in the motion picture or television field.

Individuals cannot petition themselves for O visa status.  An employer or U.S. agent must petition for O visa status for the foreign beneficiary.  If there are multiple employers, each employer must file a separate petition unless a agent is used.  Agents can petition for multiple employers if authorized to do so.