Imiatlas

🇺🇸 United States

United States Work Visa: requirements and how to apply

Dual-intent non-immigrant visa for individuals with extraordinary ability in science, education, business, tech, or arts.

Official United States work visa page

O-1A / O-1B Extraordinary Ability Visa

Dual-intent non-immigrant visa for individuals with extraordinary ability in science, education, business, tech, or arts.

Typical duration
3 years initially, renewable indefinitely
Path to permanent residency
Direct transition to EB-1A Green Card

Main requirements

  • Evidence of major international awards or 3+ statutory criteria
  • US agent or employer sponsorship

Official page

Documents usually needed for United States

  • Approved USCIS Form I-129 (for non-immigrant worker) or Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition)
  • Labor Certification (PERM) via Department of Labor (unless waived via EB-1 or EB-2 NIW)
  • Consular DS-160 (Non-immigrant) or DS-260 (Immigrant) and consular interview appointment
  • Certified academic degree evaluations and letters of experience
  • Passport valid for at least 6 months and a compliant photo (make yours here)

Application steps

  1. 1

    Petition Filing with USCIS

    Employer or applicant files Form I-129 or I-140 petition with evidence of specialty occupation or extraordinary ability.

    15 calendar days (Premium Processing) to 6 months

  2. 2

    Consular Processing & DS-160 / DS-260

    Upon USCIS approval notice (Form I-797), submit consular application and schedule interview.

    2 - 8 weeks

  3. 3

    Adjustment of Status (I-485) or Entry

    Enter the US on approved immigrant visa or adjust status to Permanent Resident Green Card holder.

    6 - 18 months

Other ways to move to United States

Find a licensed adviser

For advice on your own case, use a licensed immigration lawyer or adviser. Always check they are registered before you pay anyone. Imiatlas does not refer or review cases.

General information to help you research, not legal advice. Rules change often: always confirm with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) & Dept of State on the official website before applying.