O Visa expert lawyers at Wildes & Weinberg P.C. provide professional assistance and guidance to meet the needs of individuals in the process of receiving O visas from the immigration authorities. In its most general terms, the O visa is an employment-based, non-immigrant visa classification that may be issued to people with “extraordinary ability” who have demonstrated “sustained national or international acclaim and recognition for achievements in the field of expertise.”

The O visa can be sought out by anyone with a background in science, education, business, athletics, or arts. In other words, talented individuals like singers, musicians, entertainers, actors, artists, models, researchers, scientists, executives, business professionals, athletes, influencers, content creators, scholars, chefs, tattoo artists, etc. are a few examples to whom O-1 visas may be issued.

In order to apply for an O visa, a petition must be filed with the immigration service, either by a U.S. employer for ongoing employment, or by a U.S. agent for a defined series of engagements supported by a contract or contracts, and an itinerary stating where and when the individual of extraordinary ability performs or will perform their services. Advisory consultation with a labor union, management organization, or other peer group is also a required part of the petition. Short of a major, widely recognized international award, at least three types of evidence must be provided, and will depend on whether the individual is seeking an O-1A or an O-1B visa. The maximum period of initial admission permitted is three years, which may be renewed or extended thereafter, and there is no fixed limit on the total length of stay. O-1 visa status will only be granted for the amount of time necessary to fulfill the itinerary.

Some of our clients who have we received O-1 visas for include:

• Musicians
• Artists
• Chefs/Culinary Experts
• Athletes
• Influencers
• Actors/Actresses
• Content Creators/Streamers
• Researches
• Entertainers
• Scholars
• Scientists
• Executives/Business Professionals
• Tattoo Artists
• Models
• Security Specialists/Experts
• Cybersecurity Affiliates
• Blockchain Professionals
• Economists
• Fine Artists
• Singers/Vocalists
• Conductors
• Composers
• Pianists
• Dancers
• Choreographers
• Managers/Agents
• Social Impact Strategists
• Jewelers
• Cinematographers
• Photographers
• Writers/Authors/Novelists
• Fund Managers
• DJs/Music Producers
• Film Producers
• Architectural Designers
• Fashion Designers
• Songwriters
• Gamers/Esports Athletes
• Mining and metal Specialists
• Health/Fitness Instructors
• Ballerinas/Ballet Dancers
• Drummers/Guitarists/Bassist
• Lecturers
• Consultants
• Manicurists/Hair Stylists
• Editors
• Coaches
• Comedians
• Video Game Designers
• Performers
• Pattern Makers/Drapers
• Painters
• Entrepreneurs
• Holistic Movement Specialists
• Stunt Directors/Stunt Actors
• And more!

We also have a team of dedicated P-1A Visa Lawyers at Wildes & Weinberg P.C. who are able to provide professional assistance and guidance to meet the needs of individuals in the process of receiving P-1A visas. The P-1A visa can be sought out by individual athletes or athletic teams coming into the United States with the intention of participating in specific athletic competitions. In order to be eligible for the P-1A visa, an individual athlete must demonstrate “international recognition.” Furthermore, the competition the individual athlete or athletic team is participating in must have a distinguished reputation and be at an internationally recognized level of performance. Other standards apply to “Professional Athletes” or those competing in “Major Sports Leagues.” Either way, professional and individual athletes and teams that participate in Basketball, Football, Hockey, Tennis, Soccer, Esports, Chess, Cycling, Running, Wrestling, Bowling, Volleyball, Boxing, etc. are a few examples to whom P-1A visas may be issued.

Aside from the P-1A, we often help our clients apply for and obtain P-1S, P-1B, P-2, or P-3 visas. A P-1S visa is for those who can prove that they are “essential” to a principal P-1A athlete’s performance, while the P-1B visa is available for members of “internationally recognized entertainment groups.” Finally, the P-2 visa is for individual or group performers entering the U.S. under a reciprocal exchange program, while the P-3 is available for those seeking to perform, teach or coach as artists or entertainers, individually or as part of a group, under a program that is “culturally unique.”

While the process for preparing a P visa petition can seem intimidating, our team of experienced lawyers and paralegals are well qualified to guide you. We will assist with each step in the process, from document collection to filing the petition, and all the way through scheduling a visa appointment. It is important to have a law firm on your side that is experienced and capable of devising solutions that meet your needs. At Wildes & Weinberg, we have an astounding track record of success in handling P petitions for athletes, athletic teams, entertainment groups, cultural performers, and more. Our team remains up to date on current issues and how to deal with the challenges people are experiencing with P visas, and we take pride in ensuring the integrity of the process. For any guidance and information related to P visas, please contact Managing Partner Michael Wildes at Michael@wildeslaw.com.