USCIS Updated Policy Guidance for O-1 and O-2 Extraordinary Ability Work VISAs

On September 17th, USCIS issued an update on O visa policy manual for O nonimmigrant classifications for aliens with extraordinary ability or a record of extraordinary achievement.  Let's take a look at what was updated.

USCIS Updated Policy Guidance for O-1 and O-2 Extraordinary Ability Work VISAs

About O Nonimmigrant VISA

There are two main types of O visas:

  • O-1 nonimmigrant status is available to aliens of extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, business, education, and athletics, and aliens with a record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry. These visa holders are coming to the US temporaryily to work in their area of ability or achievement. 
  • O-2 visa is for essential support personnel coming solely to assist an O-1artist or athlete. 

Learn more on USCIS's website. 

What was updated?

There are two main changes/highlights:

  1. Expands upon existing guidance for evaluating O-1 eligibility - Basically, this affects how officers determine if the petitioner has satisfied all the criteria evidence that the beneficiary has extraordinary ability or achievement 
  2. Clarifies the circumstances under which a petitioner may rely upon comparable evidence to meet the evidentiary requirements for certain O-1 beneficiaries

Overall, it's getting a little stricter than before to obtain O visas. Learn more about USCIS news here:

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