O-1 Extraordinary ability Visa requirements

The O-1 visa is designed for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary abilities or achievements in their field, including sport.

Athletes and coaches seeking this visa must provide substantial evidence of their exceptional capabilities. This evidence could include awards, international rankings, and media coverage that highlight their noteworthy contributions to sport.

Scroll down to learn more about the O-1 visa process.

  • To demonstrate eligibility for an O-1 visa, athletes need to have won one major internationally recognized award (like an Olympic medal) or meet at least three of the following criteria:

    Receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in the field of endeavor;

    Membership in associations in the field for which O-1 classification is sought, requiring outstanding achievements as judged by recognized national or international experts in the field;

    Published material in professional or major trade publications, newspapers, or other major media about the foreign national and the foreign national’s work in the field;

    Original contributions of major significance in the field;

    Authorship of scholarly articles in professional journals/other major media;

    High salary/remuneration;

    Participation on a panel or serving as a judge of the work of others;

    Employment in a critical or essential capacity for organizations and establishments that have a distinguished reputation.Item description

  • To initiate the O-1 visa process, an advisory opinion is obtained from a relevant expert or organization in the sports domain, affirming the individual's exceptional abilities.

  • Support staff who are integral to an athlete’s performance may be eligible for an O-2 visa. They must have critical skills and experience with the athlete, which can’t be performed by anyone else.

  • O-1 visa petitions also need to include an itinerary with a list of the athlete’s activities while in the U.S.Item description

O-1 FAQs

  • The O-1 is typically granted for three years initially.

  • No, your spouse cannot work, but he or she can study. The same is true of any children under 21.

  • Yes, generally in one-year increments.

  • It depends! O-1 visa holders often end up being eligible for a green card through the EB-1A category, as there is considerable overlap in the requirements. Talk to an immigration lawyer for more information and to discuss your options.