Best Immigration Lawyers in San Diego, CA

❓How to Apply for an O-1 Visa?nYou cannot apply for your own O-1 visa. Instead, a United States-based employer, agent or foreign employer (working through a U.S. agent) must apply for you. Your employer or agent will need to file Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, on your behalf.nnIf you are an employer or agent, you may benefit from working with an attorney to help you sponsor a worker of extraordinary ability. United States immigration law is notoriously complex, and even a minor mistake in the paperwork can result in a delay or denial of your petition. For that reason, most employers choose to work with an attorney who can walk them through the process and ensure compliance with United States immigration law every step of the way.nnIf you are petitioning the United States government for an O-1 visa for a person of extraordinary ability, you must provide a written advisory opinion that comes from a person with expertise in the beneficiary’s area of ability, or from a peer group or labor union.nnHowever, there are exceptions, such as when no such group exists. In that case, you may qualify for a waiver. Your attorney can help you explore your options and determine whether you need to include a written advisory opinion with your petition or ask for a waiver.nn❗️You must also submit a copy of the contract that exists between you and the worker, as well as an explanation of the work that will be performed, a copy of the itinerary (if applicable), and more. Your attorney can advise you on the additional documentation you need to secure an O-1 visa for a person of extraordinary ability.n🖌️An O-1 visa recipient can remain in the United States for up to three years. However, if the work will take longer than that to complete, the recipient’s employer can file for an extension of stay. Extensions are available in one-year increments.