A work visa for top achievers in science, technology, business, and education. No annual cap, no lottery — based entirely on your merit.
The O-1A visa is a non-immigrant work visa for individuals with extraordinary ability in their field. Unlike the H-1B, there is no annual lottery and no numerical cap — you can apply at any time of year.
No annual cap or lottery
Unlike H-1B, there is no lottery here. Your case is reviewed on merit, not timing or chance.
Apply at any time of year
There are no filing windows or wait periods. Cases are accepted on a rolling basis year-round.
Granted in 1–3 year increments
Initial approval covers up to 3 years, with unlimited 1-year extensions available.
Extendable indefinitely
As long as your extraordinary ability work continues, your status can be renewed.
To qualify for the O-1A, you must satisfy at least 3 of the following USCIS-defined criteria demonstrating extraordinary ability.
Receipt of nationally or internationally recognised prizes or awards for excellence in your field.
Membership in associations that require outstanding achievement of their members, judged by recognised experts.
Published material in professional or major trade publications or major media about you and your work.
Participation as a judge of others' work — individually or on a panel — in your field.
Evidence of original scientific, scholarly, artistic, athletic, or business-related contributions of major significance.
Authorship of scholarly articles in professional journals or major media in your field.
Employment in a critical or essential capacity for organisations and establishments with a distinguished reputation.
Evidence that you command a high salary or other remuneration for services, compared to others in your field.
You don't need a Nobel Prize. Our O-1A approvals span technology, science, finance, media, and beyond.
From the vibrant energy of Times Square to the timeless grandeur of the Grand Canyon, life in the United States means access to some of the world's most legendary landmarks — and a country where ambition has no ceiling.
No. The O-1A requires a US employer or authorised agent to file the petition on your behalf. Unlike the EB-1A, you cannot self-petition. If you don't have a traditional employer, an agent can file on your behalf for freelance or consulting work.
Regular processing currently takes 3–6 months. With premium processing (Form I-907), USCIS guarantees an initial response within 15 business days for an additional fee of approximately $2,805.
Not directly. However, the O-1A is "dual intent" compatible, meaning you can simultaneously pursue a green card through EB-1A or EB-2 NIW. Many Veripass clients hold an O-1A while their green card petition is pending.
National recognition is sufficient. USCIS requires "national or international" acclaim — many successful petitions are built on strong domestic achievements in the applicant's home country or field of expertise.
The O-1A covers sciences, education, business, and athletics. (Note: arts, film, and TV use a separate O-1B category.) Technology, engineering, medicine, finance, entrepreneurship, and academic research all fall under O-1A.
Get a free profile evaluation from our legal team. We'll tell you honestly whether you have a strong case — and what evidence to gather.