O-1B
Non-immigrant visa
Extraordinary Ability in the Arts or Extraordinary Achievement in Motion Picture or Television Industry
ActorsDirectorsMusiciansPaintersPhotographersDancersWritersChefsDesignersOther creatives
Sponsorship
Required
Validity
3 years
Renewable
1 year increments
Processing
2-4 months
Premium processing
15 business days
Can spouse work
No
Required
- Prove sustained extraordinary achievement in your field with at least 3 of 6 types of required evidence, such as receiving prestigious awards, earning high remuneration compared to others in your field, and having lead or starring roles in notable productions
- Continue working in your area of extraordinary ability in the U.S.
Pros
- Flexible sponsorship options are available, including sponsorship by an agent—an individual or entity designated to act on your behalf—rather than a single payroll employer. This allows you to work for multiple employers and change employers easily.
- Good option for new/small employers.
- Typically lower bar than for O-1A visa.
- A good step to start building an EB-1A extraordinary ability green card.
Cons
- Requires a higher level of individual experience and credentials in your field compared to other visa categories.
- Employment is limited to the specific area of extraordinary ability or achievement.
Know others visas
Green card
EB-1A
Green card
EB-2 NIW
Non-immigrant