USA Immigration: 

O1/O2 Visas for Aliens of Extraordinary Ability

O1/O2 Visa Overview

O1/O2 Visas for Aliens of Extraordinary Ability
The O1 visa classification is reserved for an applicant that has extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, demonstrated by national and international acclaim, and who is coming to the U.S. to work in a temporary position for an employer in the area of extraordinary ability, for example, an internationally acclaimed economist coming to the U.S. to work for a U.S. investment bank, or an internationally renowned cellist coming to the U.S. to play with a symphony orchestra.  An applicant for an O1 visa must be ready to present significant evidence that he or she is well known in his or her field.  Essentially, an applicant for an O1 visa must have reached a high level of achievement, the top of his or her field.  There must be an employer sponsor for this type of visa.  O2 visas are for assistants coming to the U.S. in support of the certain O1 applicants.  

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More Details about O1/O2 Visas

What are the evidentiary requirements for O1 visa for an arts, motion picture, and television industries?

 Evidence that may be submitted in support of an O1 visa petition includes, but is not limited to evidence that: the alien has performed, or will perform in as lead in a production with a distinguished reputation; evidence that the alien has a national or international reputation; evidence that the alien has received critical acclaim, or evidence that the alien commands a high salary.  Before an O1 or O2 visa can be approved, the employer petitioner must obtain a written advisory opinion from the appropriate peer group.

What are the evidentiary requirements for asn O1 visa in science, education, business, or athletics?

Evidence includes, but is not limited to:  that the alien has received a national or international prize, evidence that the alien is a member in an organization that requires outstanding achievement among its members; evidence that the alien has published material in a major trade publication; or evidecne that the person has been employed by organizations and establishments with a distinguished reputation. Before an O1 or O2 visa can be approved, the employer petitioner must obtain a written advisory opinion from the appropriate peer or labor or management group

What is the duration of a an O1/O2 visa?

O1 visas are valid for three years, with extensions granted in one year increments.  O2 visas must be of the same duration of the O1 visa, as the O2 visa is tied to the O1.

Can family members accompany the O1/O2 visa holder to the U.S?

Yes.  Spouses and unmarried children under the age of twenty-one may be admitted in O3 status.  The O3 visa is granted for the same duration as the O1/O2.