The United States offers the possibility of applying for the Special Skills Visa, also known as O visa, to those who wish to enter the United States to work in their field.

This visa is available to those who possess skills in the sciences, arts, education, business or sports. It is also available to those who have a record of extraordinary achievement in the film or television industry; such achievements must be internationally recognized.

The Special Abilities Visa or O-1 Visa has nonimmigrant status and must be through an employer or sponsor in the United States. They are valid for three years and may be renewed upon proof of continued employment.

O-1 Visa Types

O-1A: persons of extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business or athletics (not including the arts, motion picture industry or television industry).

O-1B: persons with extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry.

O-2: persons who will accompany the O-1 artist or athlete to attend a specific event or performance.

O-3: Spouse or children of O-1 and O-2 nonimmigrants. Spouses or children (only accepts those under 21 years of age) may not work during the time they are spouses.

How to apply

Complete Form I-129.

Provide all supporting evidence and documents indicating that you have had an active career as an artist, athlete, or scientist; and that you have public recognition indicating that the work, project, or performance.

Pay the filing fee, which varies on a case-by-case basis and will be indicated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

The application may take at least three months to be processed. It should be noted that Uscis is not in a position to judge the work of the talent. Therefore, success depends on the degree of professionalism demonstrated by the applicant in his or her field.