To qualify for an O-1 visa, you must meet at least 3 of the criteria set by USCIS. The specific criteria vary slightly depending on whether you’re applying for an O-1A (science, business, education, athletics) or an O-1B (arts, film, television) visa.

O-1A Visa Criteria (Science, Business, Education, Athletics)

To qualify for an O-1A, you must meet at least 3 of the following 8 criteria set by USCIS:

1. Nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence.
   
   

2. Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievements.
   
   

3. Published material about you in professional or major media.
   
   

4. Participation as a judge of the work of others.
   
   

5. Original contributions of major significance.
   
   

6. Authorship of scholarly articles.
   
   

7. Employment in a lead or critical role for distinguished organizations.
   
   

8. High salary or other remuneration.

O-1B Visa Criteria (Arts, Film, Television)

If you’ve received a major national or international award, such as an Oscar, Emmy, Grammy, or similar, it may stand alone as proof of extraordinary ability. In this case, you wouldn't need to meet any additional criteria.

If not, for the O-1B, you must meet at least 3 of the following 6 criteria:

1. Lead, starring, or critical roles in distinguished productions or events: Think high-profile credits in film, television, or the arts that received recognition, critical acclaim, or major distribution.

2. Lead, starring, or critical roles in distinguished organizations: For example, recognized theaters, performing companies, film studios, or cultural institutions with a proven reputation.

3. Published material in major newspapers, trade journals, or media: Coverage, profiles, or reviews about you or your work in well-known outlets.

   
   

4. Record of major commercial or critically acclaimed success: Evidence such as box office receipts, television ratings, streaming figures, or press documenting critical national or international acclaim.

   
   

5. Significant recognition from organizations and industry figures: Letters, testimonials, or documented acclaim from authorities in your field.

   
   

6. High salary or substantial remuneration for services: Contracts, pay stubs, or other evidence showing compensation well above others in the field.

Other comparable evidence can also apply: I.e., alternative proof that demonstrates extraordinary achievement in the arts, film, or television.

How Manifest’s O-1 Visa Lawyers Help: 

Most accomplished professionals already meet 3 or more criteria, often without realizing it. Manifest attorneys map your achievements directly to USCIS’s criteria and frame them in a way that demonstrates extraordinary ability, even if your career doesn’t “look extraordinary” on paper.