O-1A Visa

The O-1A visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics who will temporarily work in the U.S. in their area of extraordinary ability.

Who is the Visa for?

  • Entrepreneurs and Founders


  • Software Engineers & Designers


  • Scientists & Researchers


  • Executives, Coaches, and other high-impact specialists

so long as they meet the O-1A legal standard above (USCIS defines eligibility by field, not job title lists).

Eligibility Requirements

You must meet at least 3 of the 8 criteria.

  • National or international prizes/awards for excellence

  • Membership in associations requiring outstanding achievements

  • Published material about you in professional or major media

  • Judging the work of others (reviewer, panelist, competition judge)

  • Original contributions of major significance in the field

  • Authorship of scholarly articles in professional journals or trade media

  • Leading/critical role for distinguished organizations or projects

  • High salary or other remuneration relative to others in the field


Visa Duration:

Up to 3 years with 1-3 year extensions available.

Processing Time:

  • Premium processing (Form I-907): 15 business days

  • Standard processing (Form I-129 O): Varies by service center (check USCIS tool)

OpenSphere Services:

  • Petition drafting & evidence compilation

  • RFE response support

  • End-to-end legal guidance