Document Checklist
Your Essential Guide to the O-1 Visa Application Process
DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
The success of your O-1 Visa application largely hinges on the accurate compilation and submission of necessary documents.
This checklist serves as your comprehensive guide, ensuring you're well-prepared as you embark on your O-1 journey.
1. Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker
This is the official form petitioning USCIS to classify you as eligible for the O-1 visa. Your U.S. employer, agent, or foreign employer must accurately fill this out.
2. Evidence of Extraordinary Ability or Achievement
The centerpiece of your application, your evidence should paint a compelling picture of your extraordinary ability or achievement. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Evidence of receipt of nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards.
- Membership in associations in the field for which classification is sought.
- Published material about you in professional or major trade publications or other major media.
- Evidence of participation as a judge of the work of others in the same or allied field.
- Evidence of original scientific, scholarly, or business-related contributions of major significance.
- Evidence of authorship of scholarly articles in professional journals or other major media.
- Evidence of performance in a critical or essential capacity for organizations or establishments that have a distinguished reputation.
- Evidence of having commanded high salary or other significantly high remuneration for services.
3. Consultation or Advisory Opinion (If applicable)
A written advisory opinion from a recognized peer group, labor organization, or a management organization in your field of extraordinary ability, if applicable.
4. Contract Between Petitioner and Beneficiary
A written contract between you and your petitioner or a summary of the terms of the oral agreement under which you will be employed.
5. Itinerary
An explanation of the nature of the events or activities, the beginning and end dates for the events or activities, and a copy of any itinerary for the events or activities, if applicable.
6. Evidence the Beneficiary Will Continue to Work in the Area of Extraordinary Ability
You must demonstrate that you intend to continue to work in your area of extraordinary ability in the U.S. Evidence may include letters from current or prospective employers, evidence of prearranged commitments such as contracts, or a statement detailing future plans.
7. Filing Fees
Include the correct filing fees for the I-129 form and, if applicable, the premium processing fee.
8. Proof of Beneficiary’s Citizenship
A copy of your passport’s biographical page will suffice for this requirement.
Please note: This checklist provides a general guide and may not include every document required for your individual circumstances. Always refer to the instructions given by USCIS and consult with a legal professional when necessary.