With so many types of visas available to those wishing to enter the United States, it can be extremely confusing to know which one is really needed. For those seeking entry for work, whether in California or elsewhere, the O-visa is one that can be granted for employment purposes. There are, of course, strict eligibility requirements that must be met before this type of visa will be granted.
An O-visa is a non-immigrant visa that may be provided to those who are considered experts in their fields of work. These individuals have also been recognized for their achievements either nationally or internationally. The common areas of achievement looked for include:
- Sciences
- Arts
- Education
- Business
To qualify for this visa type, applicants must show that they are one of a small few who are at the top of their industry. They must also provide evidence that they desire to enter the United States for work in their related field of excellence. Different O-visas are available based upon one’s expertise and for any accompanying family members.
As with most employment-related visas, the application process for an O-visa can be somewhat extensive and even slightly confusing. For those looking to enter California or elsewhere across the country for temporary work, help is available to obtain the appropriate visa. An immigration attorney can identify the proper visa needed for one’s specific purpose and can also ensure applications are complete and accurate — helping the process move along as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Source: uscis.gov, “O-1 Visa: Individuals with Extraordinary Ability or Achievement“, Accessed on April 29, 2015