O-1 Visa Eligibility Scorer
Score your eligibility for an O-1 extraordinary ability visa based on the USCIS criteria you meet.
Results
Visualization
How It Works
The O-1 visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics. You must meet at least 3 of 8 criteria (or show a major one-time achievement like a Nobel Prize). Unlike H-1B, there is no cap or lottery for O-1 visas.
The Formula
Eligibility = Meet 3 or more of 8 criteria
Strength: 6+ = Very Strong, 4-5 = Strong, 3 = Minimum, <3 = Not Eligible
Strength: 6+ = Very Strong, 4-5 = Strong, 3 = Minimum, <3 = Not Eligible
Variables
- 3 of 8 — Minimum criteria to meet for O-1 eligibility
- OR — A single major internationally recognized award (Nobel, Oscar, etc.)
Example
A researcher with original contributions, scholarly articles, and a critical role at a prestigious lab meets 3 criteria = minimum eligible. Adding press coverage and judging would strengthen the case to 5 criteria.
Tips
- Quality of evidence matters more than quantity of criteria met.
- O-1 has no annual cap or lottery unlike H-1B.
- Expert opinion letters significantly strengthen O-1 petitions.
- O-1 can be renewed indefinitely in 3-year increments.
- Consider O-1 as a backup plan if not selected in H-1B lottery.