Immigration in the US is a complicated process, so I want to share anything I learn that can help the process be easier.

1st September 2011

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O Visa Details and Those Who are Eligible

O-1 visas are issued to foreign nationals who have demonstrated great accomplishments in science, athletics, education, business or the arts, including those who have gained considerable recognition on a national or international basis for their work in the television or motion pictures industries. Also included in the designation are family members and important assistants. All categories of O-visa applicants can benefit from the services on an immigration lawyer. A decent immigration lawyer is available on this website.

  There are actually 3 types of O visas for which qualified candidates can apply. They are classified as follows.

· O-1A. These are people who have attained extraordinary accomplishments in science, education, athletics, education, business or the arts,

· O-1B. This category is reserved for those applicants who have made their name in the motion picture or television industries.

· O-2 Visas. This category can be difficult. These are issued to assistants who are integral to the success of O-1 visa holders. For an O-1A, the aide must be integral to the O-1A’s activity. For example, athletes and artists may require their expert assistance for specific events or performances. For an O-1B, the O-2’s support must be essential for the O-1B’s presentation or show. The O-2 must have demonstrated skills that cannot be easily reproduced by an American worker.

· 0-3 Visas. These are issued to spouses and children of O-1’s and O-2’s.

What proof of qualification is required?

This can be demanding, and practiced immigration attorneys can be helpful for negotiating the requirements. Unlike other employment visas that are temporary, O visas do not require proof that the applicants have solid ties somewhere abroad to which they intend to return. The proofs required are briefly summarized below.

They must have received a major international award on the order of a Nobel Prize. If not, they must provide three of the following proofs of accomplishment.

1. Proof they have been awarded national or international prizes for their line of endeavor.

2. Documentation that they have been accepted for membership in associations that recognize excellence in their respective industries.

3. Show they have published important material in their field in professional or trade journals or major media that include the author’s name, title of the article and date of publication.

4. Evidence that the applicant has been selected to judge the work of other members in the industry.

5. Proof that they have contributed significantly to the body of knowledge in their chosen field.

6. Evidence of their authorship of scholarly articles in professional publications or major media.

7. Proof that the applicant has been employed in organizations in their field that have a commanding reputation.

8. Financial information showing that the have received high salaries for their work.

  When you choose to apply for an O-type visa, you should retain an immigration attorney with a track record for handling these types of visa applications. The proofs can be demanding for O-1 and O-2 applicants and an immigration law firm can refer you to an associate with the background of handling your type of immigration case.