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International Student and Scholar Support

O

The O visa is a non-immigrant visa designed for individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, education, business, athletics, or the arts. Universities often sponsor O visas for distinguished faculty, researchers, and specialized professionals whose expertise is recognized at a national or international level.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for an O visa, an applicant must:

  • Demonstrate extraordinary ability in their field through sustained national or international acclaim.
  • Provide evidence of major awards, publications, original contributions, or other recognized achievements.
  • Have a job offer that requires their exceptional expertise.
  • Submit a written advisory opinion from a peer group, such as a professional association or an expert in the field.

Application Process

  1. Employer Sponsorship – The university must sponsor and file an O-1 petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of the applicant.
  2. Form I-129 Petition – The employer files Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, along with supporting documentation proving the applicant’s extraordinary ability.
  3. Supporting Documentation – The applicant must provide evidence such as major awards, published works, scholarly contributions, and letters of recommendation.
  4. Approval & Visa Application – Upon approval, the applicant applies for an O visa at a U.S. consulate in their home country (if outside the U.S.).

Duration & Extensions

The initial O visa is granted for up to three years, with the possibility of one-year extensions as long as the individual continues to perform work requiring extraordinary ability.

O Visa Categories

  • O-1A: For individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, education, business, or athletics.
  • O-1B: For individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.
  • O-2: For essential support personnel accompanying an O-1 visa holder.
  • O-3: For spouses and children (under 21) of O-1 and O-2 visa holders, who may reside in the U.S. but cannot work.

Benefits of the O Visa

  • No annual cap restrictions, unlike the H-1B visa.
  • Can be renewed indefinitely in one-year increments.
  • Recognizes outstanding contributions to a field, providing flexibility for distinguished professionals.

Additional Resources

For more information, visit the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.

If you have questions about the O visa process at our university, please reach out to our immigration support team at ois@sc.edu. 

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