O-1B Visa For Extraordinary Ability in the Arts or Extraordinary Achievement in the Motion Picture or Television Industry

Extraordinary Ability in the Arts

Applicants seeking an O-1B visa in the arts must demonstrate extraordinary ability in their respective fields, which the USCIS defines as "distinction." In this context, distinction refers to a high level of achievement in the arts, supported by evidence of skills and recognition significantly above the norm. The applicant should be prominent, renowned, leading, or well-known in their artistic field.

Extraordinary Achievement in Film and Television

​Certain professionals in the film and television industry, including actors, directors, screenwriters, and cinematographers, may be eligible for the O-1B Visa to work temporarily in the United States. This nonimmigrant visa necessitates that the applicant have a qualified job offer in the U.S., and a talent agency or individual production can act as the sponsoring entity.

To qualify for the O-1B visa in the film and television sector, applicants must demonstrate extraordinary achievement and recognition significantly surpassing their peers. Evidence for this can include the receipt of national or international awards, nominations, or having well-known and leading roles in film or television productions.

Petitions for the primary O-1B visa holder can also include key supporting personnel under the O-2 visa category. In the film or television industry, O-2 visa applicants must possess skills and experience that are specific to, and critical for, the O-1 visa holder. These skills must be beyond general qualifications and are required either due to a longstanding working relationship with the O-1 visa holder or because significant aspects of the production—including pre- and post-production work—will occur both within and outside the United States. The applicant's ongoing involvement should be essential for the successful completion of the project.