he O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa is a temporary work visa for individuals who possess extraordinary ability or achievement in their field – often referred to as the visa for “the stars” in a broad sense. Specifically, it’s available for people in sciences, education, business, or athletics (O-1A) and in the arts or the motion picture/TV industry (O-1B) who have demonstrated a level of distinction or acclaim significantly above the ordinary. In plain terms, think of top performers, award-winning artists, renowned researchers, elite athletes, successful entrepreneurs – anyone who can be considered at the top of their game internationally or nationally.
with distinguished reputations (e.g.,
lead actor in a critically acclaimed film, principal musician in a famous orchestra).
in major newspapers/trade journals showing acclaim.
evidenced by ratings, box oƯice, record sales, etc. (e.g. album went platinum).
from experts or government agencies (awards, honors).
The O-1 visa application process is more petition-intensive than a standard work visa, but with Sineva’s guidance it can be navigated smoothly. Here’s a step-by-step from initial engagement through visa
issuance:
Initially, the sales agent identifies that the client has extraordinary ability potential. In consultation, you’ll review the client’s achievements. Often, you might have an intake form or checklist (asking about awards, press, etc.)
Once retained, Sineva’s team (sales + legal) gives the client a detailed checklist of required evidence and information. For instance: a list of awards with dates, copies of certificates, articles or reviews about you (with translations if needed), any judging or panel invitations, proof of earnings (contracts, pay stubs if needed for the high salary criterion), reference contacts for letters and details of any upcoming U.S.
Sineva’s legal team now prepares the Form I-129 with O-1 supplement and compiles the supporting evidence. They write a strong cover letter that explicitly shows how the client meets at least 3 criteria (or the alternate one-time achievement if applicable).
Sineva files the I-129 petition with USCIS on behalf of the
petitioner (employer/agent). This can be done up to 1 year before the intended start of work and we usually aim to file at least 45 days before the start, as USCIS recommends.
If the petition is strong, USCIS will approve it, issuing an approval notice (Form I-797). The O-1 petition approval is what authorizes the status. If something is lacking or unclear, USCIS might issue a Request for Evidence (RFE).
If the client is outside the U.S., after petition approval, they must apply for the O-1 visa stamp at a U.S. embassy/consulate. This involves filling DS-160 form, scheduling an interview and presenting the approval notice and evidence of qualifications (though mostly the consular officer relies on the approved petition).
If the O-1 holder takes on new activities not covered in the original petition (e.g., a new employer or an additional project), an amended petition might be needed. We encourage them to let us know if their work scope changes so we can file an amendment if required.
For the immediate O-1 case, once the visa is issued, we consider that project done. The client starts working in the U.S. If any questions arise (like “my spouse needs to get O-3 visa”—to ”which we remind them, We’ll help their family apply for O-3 dependent visas so spouse/kids can accompany, though O-3’s can’t work), we handle those.
Our internal preparation process—which includes consultation, document collection and drafting—depends largely on how quickly the client provides the necessary information. On average, preparing a complete and well-documented application can take a few weeks.
Once the petition is submitted, the wait time for an interview varies based on the specific consulate and the time of year. Some consulates may offer relatively quick appointments, while others could experience longer delays depending on demand and backlog.
Decisions are often made at the time of the interview or shortly thereafter. Once approved, the visa is typically issued and the passport returned within a reasonable timeframe, depending on the consulate’s internal processing capacity.
While uncommon in consular cases—since the full application is presented in advance—RFEs may occur more frequently in change of status cases filed with USCIS. If issued, an RFE can introduce additional processing time. Our goal is to reduce this risk through thorough and strategic preparation.
For clients renewing from within the United States, processing times for status extensions through USCIS can vary. Average timelines tend to span several months under standard processing, depending on USCIS workload and service center.
I recommend their full relocation package for anyone serious about moving to the U.S.
I had zero experience in U. SI startups, but They guided me from day one.
Gracias a su asesoría mi familia y yo pudimos a emigrar con tranquilidad y confianza
Gracias a su asesoría nuestra familia pudo emigrar con tranquilidad y confianza
We outline actionable steps to scale your business effectively, including marketing, operational milestones and customer acquisition strategies.
We work with you to develop a funding structure that supports your specific objectives, whether it’s launching a new product, expanding your market, or increasing production capacity.
At Grupo Sineva, we provide comprehensive support to simplify the Business Immigration process, ensuring your business meets all requirements and submits a strong application.
We don’t just manage your visa; we build the path to a life without borders with you.
Copyright © All Right Reserved. | Grupo Sineva 2025
