O-1 Visa Frequently Asked Questions
Immigration » O-1 visas » FAQ
Who can get an O-1 visa?
People with extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business or athletics (O-1A), or in the arts (O-1B), and extraordinary achievement in motion picture and television.
Do I need a degree?
No. The O-1 is based on achievement, not on a particular degree.
Can I file for myself?
Not directly. You need a U.S. employer or a U.S. agent, but an agent can be arranged for self-employed people.
Is there a lottery?
No. The O-1 has no annual cap and no lottery.
How long does an O-1 last?
Initially up to three years, depending on the events or work. Extensions can be granted in increments of up to one year.
Can I work for more than one employer?
Yes, with a petition that covers each employer, or an agent that represents the engagements.
Can my family come with me?
Spouses and children under 21 may apply for O-3 status. They can study but are not authorized to work on O-3 alone.
Can I apply for a green card while on an O-1?
Yes. Many O-1 holders pursue an EB-1A, national interest waiver or other category.
Can I travel while my petition is pending?
It depends on whether you are changing status. Talk to us before you travel.
What if my O-1 is denied?
Options may include a motion, an appeal or a new petition with stronger evidence. We review the reasons and tell you which makes sense.
More questions we hear
Does the O-1 require a job offer?
You need an employer or agent and a description of the work, but not a labor certification.
Can an O-1 holder start a company?
Yes, with a structure that satisfies the rules, usually through an agent or an employer entity. We review the structure before you start.
Does the O-1 allow part-time or freelance work?
It allows the work in the petition. A petition can cover multiple engagements, usually through an agent.
How early can I file?
Up to one year before the work starts.
Do I need an advisory opinion for every petition?
Usually, yes, with limited exceptions. We tell you whether it applies.
Can I stay after the O-1 ends?
Only if you have another status or a pending application that protects you. Plan early.
Is premium processing guaranteed approval?
No. It only speeds up the first response.
Can I apply for a green card at the same time?
Yes. Many O-1 holders pursue a green card in parallel.
O-1 visa guide
- O-1 visa overview
- Process for obtaining O-1 status
- Requirements for O-1A and O-1B
- How to obtain your O-1 visa
- Dependents and support staff (O-3 and O-2)
- Duration and extension of O-1 status
- Change of status from O-1
- From O-1 status to a green card
- O-1 or H-1B: which is better
- EB-1A green card
- National interest waiver
Talk to us about your O-1 questions
Request a consultation to review your background and options. Legal plan members can mention their plan when booking.
This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules, policies and fees change often, so we confirm the current requirements before any filing. Last updated: November 2026.