If you’re a talented individual with extraordinary abilities, the O1 visa and EB-1 green card offer attractive immigration pathways to the United States. This article breaks down the application process and the typical timeline for each visa type, helping you make a well-informed decision for your future.

O1 Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process and Timeline

  • Assemble your documents: Collect evidence showcasing your extraordinary abilities, such as awards, memberships, publications, and a U.S. job offer.
  • Secure an advisory opinion: Obtain a written advisory opinion from a relevant U.S. peer group, labor organization, or management organization. Or one of expert letters can be an alternative of an advisory opinion letter from organizations.
  • Employer files Form I-129: Your U.S. employer needs to file Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
  • Consular processing: If you’re outside the U.S., apply for an O1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
  • Approval and entry: Upon approval, enter the U.S. with your O1 visa and commence working in your area of expertise.
  • Typically, the O1 visa application process takes 1-4 months depending your U.S. employer’s location. You can use the Premium Processing Service for an additional fee to expedite the process, ensuring a response from USCIS within 15 calendar days.

EB-1 Green Card: A Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process and Timeline

  • Identify your category: Determine if you qualify under the Extraordinary Ability (EB-1A), Outstanding Professors and Researchers (EB-1B), or Multinational Managers or Executives (EB-1C) category.
  • Collect your documents: Compile evidence to support your eligibility, such as awards, memberships, publications, and a U.S. job offer (if applicable).
  • Submit Form I-140: Complete and file Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, with USCIS.
  • Adjustment of status or consular processing: If you’re in the U.S., file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. If you’re outside the U.S., apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
  • Approval and green card issuance: After approval, you’ll receive your EB-1 green card, granting you permanent residence in the United States.
  • The EB-1 green card application process usually takes 8-14 months, depending on your category and the processing times at USCIS and the U.S. embassy or consulate.

By understanding the application process and timeline for the O1 visa and EB-1 green card, you’ll be better equipped to plan your U.S. immigration journey. As an individual with extraordinary abilities, these pathways provide the opportunity to live and work in the United States, making a significant impact in your chosen field.