For founders, researchers, artists, athletes, and other high achievers. If you've built a record of exceptional work, the O-1 may be your fastest path to working in the United States.
The O-1 visa is designed for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability in business, science, education, athletics, or the arts. Unlike many work visas, there is no lottery and no annual cap.
Not sure which applies to you? Most founders and tech professionals qualify under O-1A. Creative professionals in arts or entertainment typically fall under O-1B. Our free assessment tells you exactly where you stand.
USCIS evaluates O-1 petitions using a series of criteria that demonstrate extraordinary ability. Most successful applicants qualify under several criteria rather than relying on a single achievement.
Must satisfy at least 3 of the following 8 criteria, or provide evidence of a one-time achievement (e.g., a major internationally recognized award).
Must satisfy at least 3 of the following 6 criteria, or provide evidence of distinction (e.g., a lead role in a critically acclaimed production).
Building a strong O-1 petition requires more than gathering documents. We help identify your strongest evidence, organize it strategically, and present it in a way USCIS can evaluate clearly.
Start with a free consult →Evaluate your background against O-1 requirements and identify your strongest qualifications.
Work with an attorney to determine the strongest approach for your petition.
We'll guide you through gathering documentation, recommendation letters, and supporting evidence.
Your attorney prepares and reviews every part of the filing before submission.
We track your case, respond to RFEs if needed, and keep you informed throughout the process.
The O-1 is often one of several pathways available to highly accomplished professionals.
| O-1 Visa ✦ | H-1B | EB-1A | EB-2 NIW | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Employer Sponsor | Required | Required | No | No |
| Lottery | No | Usually | No | No |
| Annual Cap | None | 85,000 | None | None |
| Extensions | Unlimited | Limited | N/A | N/A |
| Green Card Path | Strong | Available | Direct Permanent Residence | Direct Permanent Residence |
Every case is different, but most O-1 petitions follow a similar timeline.
We evaluate your background against O-1 requirements and map out your strongest qualifications and approach.
We guide you through gathering documentation, recommendation letters, and all supporting evidence needed for a strong petition.
Your attorney prepares and reviews every part of the filing — the I-129 petition, legal brief, and supporting materials — before submission.
We file with USCIS and track your case in real time. We respond to any Requests for Evidence and keep you informed at every step. Premium processing is available for a 15 business day decision.
| Phase | Standard | Premium Processing |
|---|---|---|
| Assessment & Strategy | 1–3 days | 1–3 days |
| Evidence Collection | 2–6 weeks | 2–6 weeks |
| Petition Preparation | 1–2 weeks | 1–2 weeks |
| USCIS Processing | 2–6 months | 15 business days |
Two plans to fit your situation. USCIS filing fees are separate.
Build your case with AI-guided tools, document review, and step-by-step support while maintaining full visibility throughout the process.
Work directly with an experienced immigration attorney from strategy through filing.
A full breakdown of legal and government fees so there are no surprises. Government fees are paid directly to USCIS — not to Faircase.
I wasn't sure my background met the standard. The assessment and attorney guidance gave me a clear understanding of where I stood.
The process felt overwhelming at first. Faircase broke everything into clear steps and made it easy to stay on track.
Faircase helped us transform years of work into a clear, compelling O-1 petition. Every step felt organized and manageable.
Whether you're exploring the O-1 for the first time or preparing to file, Faircase helps you understand your options and move forward with confidence.