How To Get O Visa Fast? Eligibility Checker
The O visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows individuals with extraordinary abilities in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), arts, education, business, or athletics to work in the United States. The process of obtaining an O visa can be complex and time-consuming, but there are ways to expedite the process. In this article, we will discuss the eligibility requirements for an O visa and provide a step-by-step guide on how to get an O visa fast.
Eligibility Requirements for O Visa
To be eligible for an O visa, the applicant must demonstrate extraordinary ability in their field, which can be proven through various means, including awards, membership in associations, published material, or participation in exhibitions. The applicant must also have a sponsor in the United States, such as an employer or an agent, who will file a petition on their behalf. The sponsor must demonstrate that they have a legitimate need for the applicant’s services and that they will be paid a prevailing wage.
Types of O Visas
There are several types of O visas, including:
- O-1A: For individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, or in the fields of education, business, or athletics.
- O-1B: For individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts or in the motion picture or television industry.
- O-2: For individuals who will accompany an O-1 visa holder to assist them in their work.
- O-3: For the spouses and children of O-1 and O-2 visa holders.
Step-by-Step Guide to Get O Visa Fast
To get an O visa fast, follow these steps:
- Determine the type of O visa you need to apply for, based on your field of expertise and the purpose of your visit to the United States.
- Find a sponsor in the United States, such as an employer or an agent, who will file a petition on your behalf.
- Gather required documents, including a passport, proof of extraordinary ability, and a copy of the petition filed by your sponsor.
- File the petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), using Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker.
- Wait for the petition to be approved, which can take several months. You can check the status of your petition on the USCIS website.
- Apply for the O visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country, using Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application.
- Attend an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate, where you will be asked questions about your qualifications, your sponsor, and your plans for working in the United States.
Expedited Processing
If you need to get an O visa quickly, you can request expedited processing of your petition, which can cost an additional fee. To request expedited processing, you must file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, and attach a request for expedited processing, along with the required fee. You can also use the premium processing service, which guarantees a decision on your petition within 15 calendar days.
Processing Time | Fee |
---|---|
Regular processing | No additional fee |
Expedited processing | $1,410 |
Premium processing | $2,500 |
Eligibility Checker
To determine if you are eligible for an O visa, use the following checklist:
- Do you have extraordinary ability in your field, as demonstrated by awards, membership in associations, published material, or participation in exhibitions?
- Do you have a sponsor in the United States, such as an employer or an agent, who will file a petition on your behalf?
- Will you be paid a prevailing wage for your work in the United States?
- Do you have a legitimate need to work in the United States, as demonstrated by a contract or a letter from your sponsor?
If you answer "yes" to all of these questions, you may be eligible for an O visa. However, it's essential to consult with an immigration attorney to ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements and to guide you through the application process.
What is the processing time for an O visa petition?
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The processing time for an O visa petition can take several months. However, you can request expedited processing, which can cost an additional fee.
Can I apply for an O visa without a sponsor?
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No, you must have a sponsor in the United States, such as an employer or an agent, who will file a petition on your behalf.
How long can I stay in the United States on an O visa?
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You can stay in the United States on an O visa for up to three years, with the option to extend your stay for an additional three years.