What evidence do I need to qualify for an O-1 visa?

The O-1 is for individuals with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or extraordinary achievement in film or television, recognized nationally or internationally.

For most fields, you demonstrate this by satisfying at least three of eight regulatory criteria, such as major awards, membership in selective associations, published material about you, judging the work of others, original contributions, scholarly articles, high salary, or critical roles for distinguished organizations.

Alternatively, a one-time achievement such as a major, internationally recognized award can qualify you on its own. If standard criteria do not readily apply to your field, comparable evidence may be submitted, but you must still meet the equivalent of three criteria.