O1A Status

An O-1 status is available to foreign nationals of extraordinary ability in science, art, education, business, or athletics which has been demonstrated by sustained national or international acclaim.

The USCIS defines a person of Extraordinary Ability as one who possesses a high level of expertise and is one of a small percentage who has risen to the very top of one’s field.

One must provide extensive evidence that their achievements have been recognized in the field and that they seek to enter the United States to continue to work in the area in which s/he is extraordinary.
The O-1 is employer-specific (requires a job offer); however, one may have more than one employer sponsor an O-1 on your behalf.

An O-1 petition has an initial period of stay of up to 3 years. Subsequent extensions may be granted or extended indefinitely and generally granted in one-year.