O-1B Visa: Extraordinary Ability in Arts, Motion Pictures & Television Industry in Charleston, SC

This is the non-immigrant visa category for the truly gifted, the world's best, geniuses, superstars, and the like in the arts, motion pictures, and television industries. Won an Academy Award, an Emmy, a Grammy, or a Golden Record album? Then, this is your ticket into the U.S. America loves winners. Or just be the top in your field with the highest level of expertise in an approved area with adequate documentation. Evidence of this highest level of expertise can be in the form of any three of the following:

• Performed and will perform as the lead or starring role in a production of distinction,
• Received national or international acclaim by critical reviews,
• Perform or will perform as the lead or starring role at an establishment of distinction,
• A record of major acclaimed accomplishments,
• Received significant recognition for achievements,
• Receives a high salary or substantial remuneration for services.

Then you just need an employer and a job offer letter outlining job functions, dates, and locations, which should be easy to secure.

While this visa is temporary, initially up to 3 years, it can be renewed year by year without a limitation on extension.

The application can be filed 6 months before the employee is needed and generally takes about 4 months to process. This processing time can be accelerated by filing premium processing with the designated additional fee.

Submission Process for the O-1B Visa

The application process requires that the employer file USCIS Form I-129, a written advisory opinion from a peer group with expertise in the employee's area of ability, and a written employment contract with all other accompanying documentation and pay all required filing fees. In addition to the normal fees, possibly a premium processing fee will be owed.

Return Transportation

The employer must pay for the return transportation of the employee (not its spouse and children) if the employment was terminated early by other than voluntary employee termination.

Family Members of the O-1B Visa Holders

Family members can also accompany a separately filed USCIS Form I-129 with similar documentation upon paying all required filing fees.

Spouses and unmarried children under 21 can also obtain entry under O-3 visas. They cannot work but can attend school or college.

Let us help you to thoroughly prepare and process your applications. Remember, "with immigration, nothing is as simple as it first appears." ℠