O1A, O1B Extraordinary Ability Visas
contracts – protecting rights, minimizing risk, and negotiating fair terms in the U.S. and globally.
The O1A and O1B visas are designed for individuals who can demonstrate extraordinary ability in their field – whether in the arts, music, film, sports, television, fashion, or other industries that require internationally recognized talent. These visas open the door to living and working in the United States, but the process is complex and requires a precise legal strategy.
At ChaseLawyers®, our Miami and New York entertainment and immigration attorneys combine deep knowledge of U.S. immigration law with decades of experience in music, sports, and media industries. We guide artists, athletes, performers, and industry professionals through every step – from proving eligibility and gathering supporting evidence to filing strong petitions and responding to USCIS requests. With our legal team, you can focus on your career while we help you secure the visa that recognizes your extraordinary achievements.
contracts — protecting artists, producers, and their rights across the U.S. and globally.
Your talent opens doors — we make sure the law recognizes it. Our team helps you:
- Assess your background and achievements under USCIS O1A/O1B criteria.
- Identify the right visa category for your career path.
- Highlight awards, press, contracts, and endorsements as evidence.
- Prepare recommendation letters from top industry professionals.
We turn complex immigration requirements into a smooth, guided process. Our services include:
- Organize and present all documentation in compliance with USCIS standards.
- Draft and file detailed petitions that showcase your extraordinary ability.
- Communicate with agencies and respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
- Guide you through every step until approval.
Your journey doesn’t end with approval — and neither does our support. We assist you in:
- Advise on renewals and extensions of O1 visas.
- Assist with transitioning to permanent residency (green card) if eligible.
- Negotiate fair contracts with U.S. employers, sponsors, and agencies.
- Protect your rights as an artist, athlete, or professional in the U.S. market.
How It Works
- Share your career background and achievements.
- Identify risks and strengths under O1A/O1B requirements.
- Get initial advice on your eligibility.
- Determine the best visa path for your goals (O1A for athletes/entrepreneurs, O1B for artists/entertainers).
- Select the strongest evidence to highlight your extraordinary ability.
- Outline a clear timeline for filing and approval.
- Collect and organize awards, media coverage, contracts, and letters of recommendation.
- Draft a persuasive petition that meets USCIS standards.
- Ensure all supporting materials comply with immigration requirements.
- File your O1 petition with USCIS on your behalf.
- Handle Requests for Evidence (RFEs) quickly and effectively.
- Communicate with employers, sponsors, or agents during the process.
- Assist with visa renewals and extensions.
- Advise on contract negotiations with U.S. companies.
- Guide you toward long-term options, including green cards for extraordinary ability.
Boxers, martial artists, football players, dancers, and other athletes seeking to showcase their international recognition in the U.S.
Singers, composers, DJs, actors, theater professionals, and other entertainers applying for O1B visas to expand their careers.
Directors, producers, cinematographers, models, and creative professionals recognized for their extraordinary achievements.
Leaders in technology, fashion, digital media, and other industries whose exceptional work is acknowledged internationally.
FAQ
Find quick answers to common questions about our legal services, from costs and contracts to copyrights, licensing, and royalties.
O1A visas are for individuals withextraordinary ability in sciences, education, business, or athletics, while O1B visas are for those in the arts, film, and television.
You must provide evidence such as awards, international recognition, media coverage, membership in prestigious organizations, or letters of recommendation from experts.
Yes. You must have a U.S. employer, agent, or sponsor file the petition on your behalf.
Yes. With the right U.S. agent or management company acting as a petitioner, freelancers can qualify for O1 visas.
An initial O1 visa is typically valid for up to 3 years, with the possibility of one-year extensions depending on ongoing projects.
Yes. Spouses and children under 21 can apply for O3 visas, which allow them to live and study in the U.S., though they cannot work.
Common issues include insufficient documentation of achievements, weak recommendation letters, or lack of proper petition structure.
We assist in gathering strong evidence, selecting the right referees, drafting recommendation letters, and presenting your achievements to meet USCIS standards.
Yes, but the new employer must file a new petition before you begin working for them.
Indirectly, yes. Many O1 visa holders later transition to EB1 Green Cards (for extraordinary ability) with the right legal strategy.