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O-1A Visa Guide

O-1A Visa Guide

O-1A Visa Guide

Learn about the O-1A visa requirements, cost, eligibility, processing time, approval rate, O-1A to EB1A transitions, and working with an O-1A visa lawyer.

Chelsea Spinos, Writer
Immigration lawyer Henry Lindpere headshot

By:

Chelsea Spinos

Chelsea Spinos is a contributing writer for Manifest Law. She covers all topics related to U.S. visas and green cards. She is passionate about helping people navigate their immigration journey with clarity and confidence.

Reviewer:

Henry Lindpere

Henry Lindpere is an experienced immigration lawyer serving primarily STEM professionals, entrepreneurs, and high-achieving individuals.

14 min read • May 19, 2025

O-1A Visa Guide: Requirements, Cost, Processing Time, and O-1A Visa Approval Rate
O-1A Visa Guide: Requirements, Cost, Processing Time, and O-1A Visa Approval Rate
O-1A Visa Guide: Requirements, Cost, Processing Time, and O-1A Visa Approval Rate

Key takeaways

The O-1A visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability in science, business, education, or athletics.

Applicants must meet at least three of eight strict USCIS criteria or have a major international award.

A U.S. employer or agent must sponsor the visa; self-petitioning is not allowed.

The O-1A offers flexibility for freelancers, founders, and those with multiple U.S. work engagements.

If you’re an accomplished scientist, researcher, businessperson, educator, or other professional with exceptional ability, the O-1A visa may be your pathway to working in the United States. Known as the visa for individuals with “extraordinary ability,” the O-1A is a nonimmigrant worker visa option that provides flexibility and speed—if you can meet its high standard and prevail through its rigorous application process.


At Manifest Law, we’ve helped high-achieving clients navigate the O-1A process—from evidence collection to working with agents and sponsors, to ultimately transitioning to a green card via EB-1A. This guide covers everything on the O-1A visa from what you need to qualify, how to apply, what it costs, and what happens after approval.

A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539

What is the O-1 visa?

What is the O-1 visa?

The O-1A visa is a nonimmigrant visa reserved for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics. It allows high-achieving professionals to live and work in the United States temporarily, usually for the duration of a specific project or role.

This visa is ideal for startup founders, researchers, academics, executives, and others at the top of their fields—but eligibility requires meeting a high evidentiary bar.


USCIS defines “extraordinary ability” as a level of expertise indicating that the person is one of a small percentage who has risen to the very top of their field. Importantly, the O-1A visa requires a concrete job offer or contract from a U.S. entity that relates directly to your area of extraordinary ability. For example, a top athlete can use the O-1A to compete in their sport as an athlete, but not to come work as a coach, unless they can prove extraordinary ability as a coach.


This visa is a powerful tool for foreign professionals looking to work in the U.S. without being tied to rigid employer sponsorship programs like the H-1B. There’s no annual cap, no lottery, and processing times can be much faster—especially with premium processing.

A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539

O-1A vs. O1B: What’s the Difference?

O-1A vs. O1B: What’s the Difference?

While the O-1 visa category as a whole is meant for individuals with exceptional achievements, it's split into two subcategories:


  • The O-1A visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics.

  • The O1B visa is reserved for those in the field of arts, including performing arts, motion pictures, and television.

For example, a startup founder with an extraordinary achievement in business or a researcher with original scientific contributions would apply under the O-1A category. In contrast, a theater director or visual artist with work featured in major festivals or trade publications would typically qualify for the O-1B category.


Although both categories follow a similar application process, the evidentiary criteria differ. This guide focuses exclusively on the O-1A category—tailored for foreign nationals who have demonstrated success and acclaim in a field of endeavor that falls outside of the arts.

While the O-1 visa category as a whole is meant for individuals with exceptional achievements, it's split into two subcategories:


  • The O-1A visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics.

  • The O1B visa is reserved for those in the field of arts, including performing arts, motion pictures, and television.

For example, a startup founder with an extraordinary achievement in business or a researcher with original scientific contributions would apply under the O-1A category. In contrast, a theater director or visual artist with work featured in major festivals or trade publications would typically qualify for the O-1B category.


Although both categories follow a similar application process, the evidentiary criteria differ. This guide focuses exclusively on the O-1A category—tailored for foreign nationals who have demonstrated success and acclaim in a field of endeavor that falls outside of the arts.

O1 Visa Type

O-1A

O-1B

Eligibility Focus

Individuals with extraordinary ability in science, business, education, or athletics

Individuals in the arts, film, or television industries

This guide focuses exclusively on the O-1A visa category.

This guide focuses exclusively on the O-1A visa category.

A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539

Who Qualifies for the O-1A Visa?

Who Qualifies for the O-1A Visa?

To qualify for an O-1A visa, a beneficiary must show that they have sustained acclaim and have risen to the top of their peer group. This is assessed through a variety of achievements and documentation—each tailored to prove extraordinary ability or extraordinary achievement.


Eligibility is based on:


  • National or international recognition

  • A distinguished reputation in your field

  • Plans to continue working in your area of expertise in the U.S.


USCIS requires substantial supporting documentation, which may include evidence of awards, published material, appearances in major media, or records of playing a critical role at a notable management organization.

To qualify for an O-1A visa, a beneficiary must show that they have sustained acclaim and have risen to the top of their peer group. This is assessed through a variety of achievements and documentation—each tailored to prove extraordinary ability or extraordinary achievement.


Eligibility is based on:


  • National or international recognition

  • A distinguished reputation in your field

  • Plans to continue working in your area of expertise in the U.S.


USCIS requires substantial supporting documentation, which may include evidence of awards, published material, appearances in major media, or records of playing a critical role at a notable management organization.

O-1A Visa Criteria

O-1A Visa Criteria

USCIS outlines eight criteria for O-1A visa qualification. To be eligible, you must meet at least three of these criteria—or show evidence of a major, internationally recognized award (like a Nobel Prize or Fields Medal), which can stand alone.

In practice, most applicants provide evidence across multiple areas. A strong O-1A petition doesn’t just tick boxes—it paints a cohesive picture of your impact and reputation in your field.


Here is a breakdown of the eight official criteria, along with examples of how they might apply in real-life situations:


  1. Awards
    You must have received nationally or internationally recognized prizes for excellence in your field. This could include academic awards, innovation prizes, or industry-specific honors. For instance, a startup founder named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, or a scientist awarded a national fellowship, may qualify under this category.

  2. Membership in selective associations
    If you’re a member of professional associations that require outstanding achievements or endorsements to join, that counts. Think of scientific societies that only accept researchers with extensive published work or business organizations that vet leadership credentials.

  3. Media coverage
    Being featured in major media or trade publications can serve as strong evidence of public recognition. Articles or profiles written about you in major outlets—such as The New York Times, TechCrunch, Harvard Business Review, or academic publications—can be used to show public recognition of your work.

  4. Judging the work of others
    If you’ve served as a reviewer for journals, judged academic competitions, or participated on industry panels, it demonstrates your recognized expertise.

  5. Original contributions of major significance
    This is one of the most impactful criteria. If you’ve developed a new product, published original scientific research, or introduced innovations adopted by others, you may qualify here. Supporting evidence often includes patents, citation data, or expert letters.

  6. Authorship of scholarly articles
    Published material in peer-reviewed journals, white papers, or book chapters that contribute to the field are strong indicators of expertise.

  7. Critical employment roles
    If you’ve held a key leadership or critical role in a prestigious company, lab, or academic institution, you can use this to show your distinguished reputation and that your work is highly valued by others in the field.

  8. High compensation
    Demonstrating a high salary or remuneration significantly above the norm in your field also indicates recognition of your skills and value.

USCIS also considers advisory opinions from relevant peer groups or government agencies, particularly in complex fields or when working with a foreign employer.

USCIS outlines eight criteria for O-1A visa qualification. To be eligible, you must meet at least three of these criteria—or show evidence of a major, internationally recognized award (like a Nobel Prize or Fields Medal), which can stand alone.

In practice, most applicants provide evidence across multiple areas. A strong O-1A petition doesn’t just tick boxes—it paints a cohesive picture of your impact and reputation in your field.


Here is a breakdown of the eight official criteria, along with examples of how they might apply in real-life situations:


  1. Awards
    You must have received nationally or internationally recognized prizes for excellence in your field. This could include academic awards, innovation prizes, or industry-specific honors. For instance, a startup founder named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, or a scientist awarded a national fellowship, may qualify under this category.

  2. Membership in selective associations
    If you’re a member of professional associations that require outstanding achievements or endorsements to join, that counts. Think of scientific societies that only accept researchers with extensive published work or business organizations that vet leadership credentials.

  3. Media coverage
    Being featured in major media or trade publications can serve as strong evidence of public recognition. Articles or profiles written about you in major outlets—such as The New York Times, TechCrunch, Harvard Business Review, or academic publications—can be used to show public recognition of your work.

  4. Judging the work of others
    If you’ve served as a reviewer for journals, judged academic competitions, or participated on industry panels, it demonstrates your recognized expertise.

  5. Original contributions of major significance
    This is one of the most impactful criteria. If you’ve developed a new product, published original scientific research, or introduced innovations adopted by others, you may qualify here. Supporting evidence often includes patents, citation data, or expert letters.

  6. Authorship of scholarly articles
    Published material in peer-reviewed journals, white papers, or book chapters that contribute to the field are strong indicators of expertise.

  7. Critical employment roles
    If you’ve held a key leadership or critical role in a prestigious company, lab, or academic institution, you can use this to show your distinguished reputation and that your work is highly valued by others in the field.

  8. High compensation
    Demonstrating a high salary or remuneration significantly above the norm in your field also indicates recognition of your skills and value.

USCIS also considers advisory opinions from relevant peer groups or government agencies, particularly in complex fields or when working with a foreign employer.

A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539

O-1A Visa Job Offer Requirements

O-1A Visa Job Offer Requirements

To qualify for the O-1A visa, you must have a concrete job offer or contract from a U.S. company that aligns with your area of extraordinary ability. This can be for a full-time position, a short-term project, or even a series of engagements if you’re working across multiple employers.

To qualify for the O-1A visa, you must have a concrete job offer or contract from a U.S. company that aligns with your area of extraordinary ability. This can be for a full-time position, a short-term project, or even a series of engagements if you’re working across multiple employers.

Important: You cannot self-petition. A U.S.-based employer or agent must submit the petition on your behalf. The job must involve work in your field of endeavor—such as a researcher continuing work in molecular biology, or a startup founder building a new venture in the U.S. You must file a formal O-1 petition by submitting Form I-129 through the appropriate service center.

Using an O-1A Agent

Using an O-1A Agent

If you don’t have a single employer, a U.S. agent can act as your petitioner. This is especially useful for freelancers, consultants, or startup founders working on multiple ventures.


The agent must provide:


  • A detailed itinerary of all engagements

  • Contracts or offer letters from each company or project

  • A statement of intent confirming the working relationship


This approach gives flexibility for those whose careers span different organizations or freelance roles.

If you don’t have a single employer, a U.S. agent can act as your petitioner. This is especially useful for freelancers, consultants, or startup founders working on multiple ventures.


The agent must provide:


  • A detailed itinerary of all engagements

  • Contracts or offer letters from each company or project

  • A statement of intent confirming the working relationship


This approach gives flexibility for those whose careers span different organizations or freelance roles.

Can I Self-petition for the O-1A visa?

Can I Self-petition for the O-1A visa?

No, the O-1A visa does not allow for self-petitioning. You must be sponsored by a U.S. employer or agent. However, you can be the owner of your own business and have that business be the U.S. sponsoring employer. If you're looking for a green card that does allow self-petitioning, the EB-1A green card may be a better long-term option.

No, the O-1A visa does not allow for self-petitioning. You must be sponsored by a U.S. employer or agent. However, you can be the owner of your own business and have that business be the U.S. sponsoring employer. If you're looking for a green card that does allow self-petitioning, the EB-1A green card may be a better long-term option.

A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539

Can I Freelance on the O-1A Visa?

Can I Freelance on the O-1A Visa?

Yes, but only if your visa is petitioned by a U.S. agent. In this structure, you can work for multiple clients or employers, as long as your petition clearly lays out:


  • The scope of each engagement

  • The timeline and deliverables

  • Signed contracts or letters of engagement


This makes the O-1A visa more flexible than many other employment-based visas.

Yes, but only if your visa is petitioned by a U.S. agent. In this structure, you can work for multiple clients or employers, as long as your petition clearly lays out:


  • The scope of each engagement

  • The timeline and deliverables

  • Signed contracts or letters of engagement


This makes the O-1A visa more flexible than many other employment-based visas.

Can I Bring Family or Work Support?

Can I Bring Family or Work Support?

If you’re an O-1 visa holder, you may bring your dependents (spouse and children) to the U.S. under the O-3 visa category. While O-3 dependents cannot work, they may study.


If you're an artist, athlete, or professional requiring essential support personnel, they may be eligible for the O-2 visa. This is common for production crews, executive assistants, or key research collaborators.


All related visa petitions must be submitted with detailed documentation and timing should align with the main O-1 visa application.

If you’re an O-1 visa holder, you may bring your dependents (spouse and children) to the U.S. under the O-3 visa category. While O-3 dependents cannot work, they may study.


If you're an artist, athlete, or professional requiring essential support personnel, they may be eligible for the O-2 visa. This is common for production crews, executive assistants, or key research collaborators.


All related visa petitions must be submitted with detailed documentation and timing should align with the main O-1 visa application.

What Kind of Job Offer Is Required?

What Kind of Job Offer Is Required?

To qualify for an O-1A visa, you must have a specific job offer in the U.S. that directly relates to your area of extraordinary ability. This job doesn’t have to be a full-time salaried position—it can take several forms, as long as it’s well-documented and aligned with your field.


Acceptable Job Structures Include:


  • Traditional employment — A full-time role with a U.S. employer in your field (e.g. a scientist joining a lab).

  • Agent-based freelance or contract work — A U.S. agent petitions on your behalf for multiple short-term gigs (e.g. startup advising, consulting).

  • Startup founder or executive — Your U.S. company sponsors you as a key founder or leader; must show funding, operations, and your active role.

  • Academic/research appointments — Includes visiting scholar, postdoc, or research roles at U.S. institutions.


You will need to include the following documents with your O-1A visa application:


  • A signed offer letter or contract that describes your duties, timeline, and compensation

  • A clear explanation of how the role aligns with your area of expertise

  • For agents: an itinerary of engagements, with details on each project and third-party contracts

Remember, you cannot self-petition for the O-1A, but with a U.S. employer or agent, flexible work structures—including freelance or portfolio careers—are possible.

To qualify for an O-1A visa, you must have a specific job offer in the U.S. that directly relates to your area of extraordinary ability. This job doesn’t have to be a full-time salaried position—it can take several forms, as long as it’s well-documented and aligned with your field.


Acceptable Job Structures Include:


  • Traditional employment — A full-time role with a U.S. employer in your field (e.g. a scientist joining a lab).

  • Agent-based freelance or contract work — A U.S. agent petitions on your behalf for multiple short-term gigs (e.g. startup advising, consulting).

  • Startup founder or executive — Your U.S. company sponsors you as a key founder or leader; must show funding, operations, and your active role.

  • Academic/research appointments — Includes visiting scholar, postdoc, or research roles at U.S. institutions.


You will need to include the following documents with your O-1A visa application:


  • A signed offer letter or contract that describes your duties, timeline, and compensation

  • A clear explanation of how the role aligns with your area of expertise

  • For agents: an itinerary of engagements, with details on each project and third-party contracts

Remember, you cannot self-petition for the O-1A, but with a U.S. employer or agent, flexible work structures—including freelance or portfolio careers—are possible.

A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539

Petition Letter and Evidence Strategy for O-1A Visa

Petition Letter and Evidence Strategy for O-1A Visa

The petition letter (or "support letter") is a cornerstone of your O-1A application. Written by your immigration lawyer, this document is addressed to USCIS and outlines your qualifications in detail. It presents a structured legal argument showing how your achievements meet specific O-1A eligibility criteria.


The letter typically includes:


  • A summary of your background and career accomplishments

  • A list of the criteria you meet

  • A description of the evidence submitted under each criterion

  • An explanation of why your work qualifies as “extraordinary” in your industry

This letter, together with your supporting materials—such as publications, press articles, recommendation letters, and contracts—form the heart of your petition. Weak or vague letters often lead to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or denials, so having an experienced O-1A visa lawyer draft it is strongly recommended.

The petition letter (or "support letter") is a cornerstone of your O-1A application. Written by your immigration lawyer, this document is addressed to USCIS and outlines your qualifications in detail. It presents a structured legal argument showing how your achievements meet specific O-1A eligibility criteria.


The letter typically includes:


  • A summary of your background and career accomplishments

  • A list of the criteria you meet

  • A description of the evidence submitted under each criterion

  • An explanation of why your work qualifies as “extraordinary” in your industry

This letter, together with your supporting materials—such as publications, press articles, recommendation letters, and contracts—form the heart of your petition. Weak or vague letters often lead to Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or denials, so having an experienced O-1A visa lawyer draft it is strongly recommended.

Reach out to us at Manifest Law for a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney who can help.

Reach out to us at Manifest Law for a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney who can help.

O-1A Visa Cost

O-1A Visa Cost

When applying for an O-1A visa, it’s important to budget for both government fees and professional/legal costs. Here’s a full breakdown:

When applying for an O-1A visa, it’s important to budget for both government fees and professional/legal costs. Here’s a full breakdown:

Government Filing Fees

Fee Type

USCIS Filing Fee (Form I-129)

Premium Processing (optional)

Cost (as of April 2025)

$1,055

$2,805

Premium processing guarantees a 15-business-day response time. While optional, it’s often used by applicants on tight timelines.


Check the USCIS fee schedule for the latest information on filing fees.

Premium processing guarantees a 15-business-day response time. While optional, it’s often used by applicants on tight timelines.


Check the USCIS fee schedule for the latest information on filing fees.

Attorney Fees

Legal fees for a qualified O-1A visa lawyer generally range between $4,000 and $8,000, depending on the complexity of your case, the attorney’s experience, and the terms of the agreement. These fees typically include:


  • Eligibility analysis

  • Evidence strategy

  • Petition drafting

  • Filing and USCIS communication

At Manifest Law, we offer flat-rate pricing and transparent support throughout the process. Visit our O1 visa lawyer page for more information.

Legal fees for a qualified O-1A visa lawyer generally range between $4,000 and $8,000, depending on the complexity of your case, the attorney’s experience, and the terms of the agreement. These fees typically include:


  • Eligibility analysis

  • Evidence strategy

  • Petition drafting

  • Filing and USCIS communication

At Manifest Law, we offer flat-rate pricing and transparent support throughout the process. Visit our O1 visa lawyer page for more information.

A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539
A man completes a form with a pen while holding a passport in his other hand. Form I539

O-1A Visa Processing Time

O-1A Visa Processing Time

Processing time can vary depending on whether you choose regular or premium processing, and depending on which office is handling your case. Below are estimates based on historical data for the O-1A visa processing time.

Processing time can vary depending on whether you choose regular or premium processing, and depending on which office is handling your case. Below are estimates based on historical data for the O-1A visa processing time.

Processing Type

Regular USCIS Processing

Premium Processing

Estimated Timeline

3–6 months

15 business days

Note: Keep in mind that the preparation time before filing (collecting evidence, writing the petition, etc.) can take several weeks. We recommend starting early—especially if you have upcoming project deadlines or events in the U.S.

O-1A Visa Approval Rate

O-1A Visa Approval Rate

The O-1A visa has one of the highest approval rates among U.S. employment-based visa categories. According to the USCIS FY2023 STEM-Related Petition Trends report, the approval rate for O-1A petitions remained consistently strong at around 90%.


That said, the approval rate doesn't mean the O-1A visa is easy to get. USCIS still applies rigorous standards to each petition.


Working with an experienced O-1A visa lawyer significantly improves your chances. At Manifest Law, we build tailored evidence strategies and structure each petition to meet the latest adjudication trends—especially in high-scrutiny categories like STEM and entrepreneurship.


Request a consultation with our team at Manifest Law today to learn more.

The O-1A visa has one of the highest approval rates among U.S. employment-based visa categories. According to the USCIS FY2023 STEM-Related Petition Trends report, the approval rate for O-1A petitions remained consistently strong at around 90%.


That said, the approval rate doesn't mean the O-1A visa is easy to get. USCIS still applies rigorous standards to each petition.


Working with an experienced O-1A visa lawyer significantly improves your chances. At Manifest Law, we build tailored evidence strategies and structure each petition to meet the latest adjudication trends—especially in high-scrutiny categories like STEM and entrepreneurship.


Request a consultation with our team at Manifest Law today to learn more.

Extension of Stay and Status Maintenance

Extension of Stay and Status Maintenance

The O-1A visa is initially valid for up to 3 years. You may apply for an extension of stay in 1-year increments as long as you continue the same or similar work. There is no limit to how many extensions are permitted, as long as USCIS continues to approve your O-1 status.


All extension filings must include:


  • Updated supporting documentation

  • A new or amended Form I-129

  • Proof that the work still aligns with your extraordinary achievement


Extensions are processed by a designated service center, and timelines vary by location.

The O-1A visa is initially valid for up to 3 years. You may apply for an extension of stay in 1-year increments as long as you continue the same or similar work. There is no limit to how many extensions are permitted, as long as USCIS continues to approve your O-1 status.


All extension filings must include:


  • Updated supporting documentation

  • A new or amended Form I-129

  • Proof that the work still aligns with your extraordinary achievement


Extensions are processed by a designated service center, and timelines vary by location.

Repeated "FAQ" text in a list format, indicating a section dedicated to frequently asked questions. Form I539
Repeated "FAQ" text in a list format, indicating a section dedicated to frequently asked questions. Form I539
Repeated "FAQ" text in a list format, indicating a section dedicated to frequently asked questions. Form I539

FAQs

FAQs

Can I renew an O-1A visa?

Yes, the O-1A visa is initially granted for up to three years, but you can renew or extend it in one-year increments as long as you continue working on the same or similar project in your field of extraordinary ability. 


There is no maximum number of extensions, so as long as you maintain eligibility and a qualifying job, you can remain in the U.S. under O-1A status indefinitely. Each renewal requires filing an amended or new Form I-129 with updated documentation.

What’s the difference between the O-1A and EB1A?

Both the O-1A visa and the EB1A green card are for individuals with extraordinary ability—but they serve very different purposes:

Feature

Type

Validity

Requires job offer?

Processing time

Green card status

O-1A Visa

Nonimmigrant (temporary)

Up to 3 years + 1-year extensions

Yes

Weeks to months

No (but can lead to one)

EB1A Green Card

Immigrant (permanent residency)

Permanent

No (self-petition allowed)

8–18+ months

Yes

While the O-1A allows you to live and work in the U.S. temporarily, the EB-1A grants permanent residence (a green card). Many people use the O-1A as a strategic stepping stone to build their credentials and later apply for the EB1A.

Can I go from an O-1A visa to an EB1A green card?

Yes, many individuals start with an O-1A visa and later apply for an EB-1A green card as their achievements accumulate and U.S. work history strengthens their case.


Unlike the O-1A, the EB-1A allows for self-petitioning, meaning you don’t need an employer or agent to apply on your behalf. That said, the standard for approval is higher in practice, and you'll need to show sustained national or international acclaim. 


If you're considering this transition, reach out to us at Manifest Law for assistance.

How Manifest Law Can Help

At Manifest Law, we specialize in helping extraordinary individuals secure U.S. work visas and build long-term immigration strategies. Whether you're a startup founder, scientist, educator, or business executive, we’ll help you build the strongest possible O-1A case.


We don’t just file forms—we craft stories backed by rigorous evidence. And if you're thinking long term, we can also help you transition from O-1A to EB-1A with a green card strategy that’s realistic and effective.


Request a consultation to get started today.

Take the First Step:

Request an evaluation

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Discuss the visa options of interest to you

Check mark in a circle icon

General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options

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Information on Manifest fees, terms and process

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Full clarity and transparency every step along the way

Request a consultation

Picture of Avi Goldenberg, principal attorney at Manifest Law

Avi Goldenberg

Principal attorney at Manifest Law, PLLC

Take the First Step:

Request an evaluation

Check mark in a circle icon

Discuss the visa options of interest to you

Check mark in a circle icon

General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options

Check mark in a circle icon

Information on Manifest fees, terms and process

Check mark in a circle icon

Full clarity and transparency every step along the way

Request a consultation

Picture of Avi Goldenberg, principal attorney at Manifest Law

Avi Goldenberg

Principal attorney at Manifest Law, PLLC

Take the First Step:

Request an evaluation

Check mark in a circle icon

Discuss the visa options of interest to you

Check mark in a circle icon

General information about timelines, fees, requirements for various visa options

Check mark in a circle icon

Information on Manifest fees, terms and process

Check mark in a circle icon

Full clarity and transparency every step along the way

Request a consultation

Picture of Avi Goldenberg, principal attorney at Manifest Law

Avi Goldenberg

Principal attorney at Manifest Law, PLLC

In this blog article:

What is the O-1 visa?

O-1A vs. O1B: What’s the Difference?

Who Qualifies for the O-1A Visa?

O-1A Visa Criteria

O-1A Visa Job Offer Requirements

Using an O-1A Agent

Can I Self-petition for the O-1A visa?

Can I Freelance on the O-1A Visa?

Can I Bring Family or Work Support?

What Kind of Job Offer Is Required?

Petition Letter and Evidence Strategy for O-1A Visa

O-1A Visa Cost

O-1A Visa Processing Time

O-1A Visa Approval Rate

Extension of Stay and Status Maintenance

FAQs

Work Visas

O1 Visa

EB1 Visa

EB2 NIW Visa

E1 Visa

E2 Visa

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Attorney Advertising. This website is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and is no substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Only an attorney can provide you with legal advice, and only after considering your specific facts and circumstances. You should not act on any information on this website without first seeking the advice of an attorney. Manifest Law is an association of lawyers and legal entities that have agreed to do business under a common name, which includes Manifest Legal Services LLC and Manifest Law, PLLC. The use of the name “Manifest Law” does not imply that all lawyers or legal entities within the Manifest Law family are part of a single partnership or that they are responsible for the acts or omissions of each other.  Any specific attorney-client engagement, the scope of any such attorney-client relationship, and the legal responsibility for any such engagement will be set forth in the retainer agreement entered into between the client and the relevant Manifest Law attorney(s). All legal services are conducted by licensed immigration professionals. Manifest Legal is an Arizona ABS company. This website is regulated by the Arizona Rules of Professional Conduct

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Blog

News

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Contact Us

Email Manifest Law

help@manifestlaw.com

(for clients and general inquiries)

Email Manifest Law

careers@manifestlaw.com

Call Manifest Law

(332) 333-3517

(please text us)

Manifest Law Offices:

(by appointment only)

333 Park Avenue South, office 3C, New York, NY

2550 W. Union Hills Drive, Suite 350, Phoenix, Arizona

Attorney Advertising. This website is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and is no substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Only an attorney can provide you with legal advice, and only after considering your specific facts and circumstances. You should not act on any information on this website without first seeking the advice of an attorney. Manifest Law is an association of lawyers and legal entities that have agreed to do business under a common name, which includes Manifest Legal Services LLC and Manifest Law, PLLC. The use of the name “Manifest Law” does not imply that all lawyers or legal entities within the Manifest Law family are part of a single partnership or that they are responsible for the acts or omissions of each other.  Any specific attorney-client engagement, the scope of any such attorney-client relationship, and the legal responsibility for any such engagement will be set forth in the retainer agreement entered into between the client and the relevant Manifest Law attorney(s). All legal services are conducted by licensed immigration professionals. Manifest Legal is an Arizona ABS company. This website is regulated by the Arizona Rules of Professional Conduct

Terms of Use

Privacy Policy

Editorial Policy

Do Not Sell My Personal Information

2025 Manifest Copyright. All Rights Reserved.

Work Visas

O1 Visa

EB1 Visa

EB2 NIW Visa

E1 Visa

E2 Visa

E3 Visa

L1 Visa

P1 Visa

TN Visa

H1B Visa

Other Work Visas

Corporate

Immigration

Family

Immigration

K1 Visa

Marriage Green Cards

Family Green Cards

RFE

NOID

Other Visas

Employment

Law

Unpaid Wages

Unpaid Overtime

Employment
contract

Work
discrimination

Sexual
harassment

Hostile
work environment

Severance

Family Leave

Whistleblower

Retaliation

Wrongful
termination

EEOC

Employment
Resources

Our Lawyers

Resources

Approved Cases

Blog

News

Visa Bulletin

About Us

Reviews

Contact Us

Email Manifest Law

help@manifestlaw.com

(for clients and general inquiries)

Email Manifest Law

careers@manifestlaw.com

Call Manifest Law

(332) 333-3517

(please text us)

Manifest Law Offices:

(by appointment only)

333 Park Avenue South, office 3C, New York, NY

2550 W. Union Hills Drive, Suite 350, Phoenix, Arizona

Attorney Advertising. This website is intended for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and is no substitute for consulting a licensed attorney. Only an attorney can provide you with legal advice, and only after considering your specific facts and circumstances. You should not act on any information on this website without first seeking the advice of an attorney. Manifest Law is an association of lawyers and legal entities that have agreed to do business under a common name, which includes Manifest Legal Services LLC and Manifest Law, PLLC. The use of the name “Manifest Law” does not imply that all lawyers or legal entities within the Manifest Law family are part of a single partnership or that they are responsible for the acts or omissions of each other.  Any specific attorney-client engagement, the scope of any such attorney-client relationship, and the legal responsibility for any such engagement will be set forth in the retainer agreement entered into between the client and the relevant Manifest Law attorney(s). All legal services are conducted by licensed immigration professionals. Manifest Legal is an Arizona ABS company. This website is regulated by the Arizona Rules of Professional Conduct

Terms of Use

Privacy Policy

Editorial Policy

Do Not Sell My Personal Information

2025 Manifest Copyright. All Rights Reserved.

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