The O-1A visa can be a powerful option for accomplished founders, entrepreneurs, and startup leaders who have demonstrated extraordinary ability in business, science, technology, or another qualifying field.
Unlike many employment-based visas, the O-1A can work well with the realities of startup life. Founders may own equity in the petitioning company, and a company they co-founded may be able to sponsor them. There is also no annual lottery or H-1B-style cap.
To qualify, applicants generally demonstrate a record of significant achievement through evidence such as nationally or internationally recognized awards, media coverage, important contributions to their industry, high compensation, judging the work of others, or serving in a critical role for distinguished organizations.
For founders, the strongest evidence may look different from a traditional academic or corporate résumé. Successful fundraising, meaningful press coverage, industry recognition, influential products or technology, significant company growth, and leadership within notable organizations may all be relevant depending on the circumstances.
Attorney Jessica White works with founders and professionals to identify their strongest evidence and develop an O-1A strategy tailored to their accomplishments.
Building something extraordinary? Schedule a consultation to find out whether the O-1A could be part of your U.S. immigration strategy.