: O1 visa without employer Feb 19, 2025 · Our O-1 Visa attorneys provide guidance on how to secure an O1 visa sponsor, a crucial step in obtaining an O-1 visa. This route offers flexibility but also comes with its own set of complexities. To Apply for an O-1 Visa • Obtain a US employer, agent, or sponsor who is willing to submit the petition. Aug 15, 2024 · Discover the differences between an agent and an employer for your O-1 visa. (U) An O-1 or O-2 applicant must be the beneficiary of a petition approved by DHS before visa issuance. Dec 15, 2021 · Share the video: • How to Get O-1 Visa Without Employer? Full Episode: • #213 Joseph Tsang & O-1 "Self-Petitions" Our Website: ImmigrationLawyersToolbox. A: The O-1 visa is a non-immigrant employment-based visa classification for foreign nationals who can demonstrate the sustained national or international acclaim and recognition for achievements in the sciences, education, business, or athletics. These visas include the EB-2 NIW visa and the O-1 visa. Cost of the O-1 Visa Filing Fee (Form I-129): $1,055 (for most employers). 2(o)(2)(iv)(E). What are the Attorney Fees for an O-1 Visa Application? O-1 Attorney Fee: $7,500 These attorney fees are flat fees that covers all legal services provided in support of your O-1 visa application. Work Visa Without a Job OfferThe application process for the EB-2 NIW and O-1 Visa involves several key steps: Is There a Grace Period if My O-1 Employment Ends? Yes, O-1 visa holders have a 60-day grace period after employment termination or until the visa expiration date, whichever comes first. employer and are currently in O-1 status, the GPS office will need to file a petition with USCIS representing the change in sponsorship prior to your start date. Transferring or changing your employer If you are coming to a Mass General Brigham affiliate from another U. Choose the best option according to your needs and abilities. Although the O-1 doesn’t grant permanent residency, it can serve as a stepping stone to an employment-based green card. Mar 17, 2022 · Overview of the O-1 Visa Program The O-1 visa program is a nonimmigrant temporary work visa for individuals who possess extraordinary ability in professions such as the arts, sciences, athletics, business, performing arts, and more. • File Form I-129 and a comprehensive contract, peer consultation Jun 30, 2020 · If you are currently in the U. O-1 Visa Processing for an Independent Contractor Just like most other work visas in the U. Applications require a U. O-1 holders can self-petition for green cards without employer sponsorship, providing more flexibility than H-1B workers, who typically need employer sponsorship for their green cards through PERM labor Mar 2, 2025 · Securing a US work visa without an employer sponsor is possible with the EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) and O-1 Visa. The O-1 visa is employer-specific, meaning the foreign worker cannot work for a different employer. While O-1 beneficiaries may not self-petition, a separate legal entity owned by the O-1 beneficiary may be eligible to file a petition on behalf of the O-1 beneficiary. I'd like to apply for an O-1 visa as an artist. Adding new employers or Choosing a U. This must be demonstrated by either receipt of a major internationally-recognized award, such as a Nobel Prize; or at least three Oct 4, 2024 · For many looking to apply for an O-1 visa without a traditional employer, the concept of using an agent as a sponsor can be a game-changer. Traditionally, the O-1 visa has been associated with structured employment settings. Jul 18, 2025 · Need a US visa for highly skilled workers without employer restrictions? The O-1 visa agent route offers great flexibility. In this blog post, we’ll explore the process of filing an Jul 12, 2025 · The O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa enables top-tier professionals to work temporarily in the U. May 2, 2025 · How to Apply for a U. The H-1B visa, the primary, conventional entry point to employment in the United States, is a very popular yet overcrowded employment path for immigrants. An applicant can form a company which can petition on his/her behalf by creating an Employee-Employer Relationship. agent instead of an employer can allow for more job opportunities without needing to amend or refile the visa. Unlike some other visa categories, the O-1 visa has May 19, 2025 · Curious if O-1 self petition is an option? Learn how you can establish and employer-employee relationship so you can get approved! Looking for a U. An employer has the option to request expedited processing (15 days or less) of an O-1 application for an additional fee of $1,410. Jun 28, 2025 · The O-1 visa is a favored U. The O-3 visa is for dependents of O-1's and O-2's. O-1A is for individuals with an extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics. A. In this article, we’ll explore how these visas work, their eligibility criteria, benefits, and step-by-step application processes. Do I need an employer to sponsor it? How much proof of my work do I need? Do I need recommendation letters? Will having a successful book in my country suffice? Do I really need to have won any type of award to qualify? Can anyone tell me their stories? How exceptional are you? Mar 5, 2025 · Enter the EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) and the O-1 visa —two unique visa categories that allow qualified individuals to bypass the traditional employer-sponsored route. Learn how to apply and qualify. Recent 2024–2025 updates allow company ownership for entrepreneurs, easier extensions, and recognize emerging fields, improving flexibility while maintaining rigorous standards throughout the process. Learn what proves extraordinary ability and how to prepare. Feb 21, 2025 · Learn about O-1 visa work restrictions, eligibility, and benefits. Applicants must prove exceptional skills via major awards or three criteria. This article walks you through the O-1 criteria and how to qualify. Nov 8, 2024 · For individuals with exceptional abilities in fields like science, arts, business, athletics, or education, the O-1 visa provides a viable path to live and work in the United States. Oct 20, 2025 · So, you’ve been scrolling through r/O1VisasEB1Greencards and seeing everyone talk about O-1 “agent sponsorship,” and you’re wondering, “Wait, can I actually get this amazing visa without being tied to a big company?” The short answer is absolutely, yes. The evidence required depends on whether the agent is filing as an agent performing the function of an employer; as a person or company in business as an agent and filing for multiple employers; or as an agent for a foreign employer. Read on to see the answers to all your O-1 process questions and concerns. , which can be beneficial for individuals looking to establish long-term residency. I feel like asking the employer to add an "agency" on job offer might give them the idea, they are Aug 27, 2025 · Learn about the most common O-1 visa FAQs covering how to obtain or file an extension for an O-1 visa. Individuals cannot apply for the O-1 visa by themselves, but they can establish a legally Mar 3, 2023 · The O-1 nonimmigrant visa is for the individual who possesses extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or who has a demonstrated record of extraordinary achievement in the motion picture or television industry and has been recognized nationally or internationally for those achievements. USCIS does not allow self-petitions for O-1 applicants. Jun 11, 2025 · The O-1 visa, also known as the extraordinary ability visa, might be the perfect fit for your immigration journey. What are the different types of O-1 visa? There are two types of O-1 visa: O-1A and O-1B. The next section will explain the four sponsorship structures in detail so you can determine the best one for your situation. Discover if the O-1 is right for your career. Feb 26, 2025 · An O-2 beneficiary may change employers only in conjunction with a change of employers by the principal O-1 beneficiary. The Four O1 Visa Sponsorship Structures The way your O-1 visa petition is structured determines: Feb 5, 2025 · With the right O1 visa structure, you can take control of your career and avoid being dependent on a single employer. Learn how O‑1 visa agents work, who can sponsor you, eligibility rules, costs, and how to apply without a direct U. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the O-1 visa: who qualifies, how to apply, what supporting evidence is needed, and how to maximize your chances of approval. The extraordinary b. agent. It’s meant for those who are at the “very top” of their profession. The EB-1A allows for self-petition, which means you can apply for it on your own if you meet the criteria of having extraordinary ability in science, arts, education, business, or athletics. This means you can express your intent to live and work permanently in the U. Jul 11, 2023 · One advantage of the O1 visa is its “dual intent” nature, meaning that you can pursue a permanent residency (a Green Card) while on an O1 visa without jeopardizing your non-immigrant status. If an agent filed the petition, the agent must file an amended petition with evidence relating to the new employer. on an O-1A or an O-1B status and you want to change your employer, you can do so, but your new employer will have to file a new O-1 petition with USCIS. When can I start working for the new employer? You can only start Sep 29, 2025 · O-1 visa holders can work for multiple U. Fortunately, some US visa programs offer a path to work without the need for an employer sponsorship. Understand the typical timeline for an O1 visa from petition filing to approval. Both are non-immigrant visas that allow visa holders to perform temporary services for a U. In 2025, updated USCIS rules support tech fields like AI, easing eligibility. Sep 30, 2025 · company bylaws Learn all about the O-1 Visa for Start-up Founders. Unlike most other US work visas requiring a US employer or agent to petition with USCIS, the O-1A visa allows for self-sponsorship if you establish a US entity and can demonstrate a legitimate employer-employee relationship. , the O-1 visa is filed through the I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker. Nov 12, 2021 · Posted on November 12, 2021 Overcoming O-1 Visa Challenges If you are in the United States on an O-1 Visa and there are significant changes in your employment or it is terminated, you might be wondering how this will affect your visa status. Jan 12, 2025 · O-1 visa complete guide covering extraordinary ability requirements, application process, and success strategies for talented professionals. O-1 Visa Application for Entrepreneurs in the U. The O1 visa is a great option for people with extraordinary abilities. If you are not employed or don’t have a job offer, you may still apply for an O-1 visa. employer or an agent of an international employer. Immigration It is a painful experience to explain the situation that you won't require sponsorship with agent sponsored O1 visa. O-1 visa holders can change employers while in the United States, without having to return home. What are the eligibility criteria for an O-1 visa? In order to be eligible for an O-1 visa, the foreign national must demonstrate extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics through sustained national or international acclaim. This form must be submitted to the USCIS by your agent at least 45 days before the date of your employment. employer or sponsor. employer, an agent, or a company that the applicant owns. com Not legal advice. It requires the employer file a petition for a nonimmigrant worker, along with evidence of the individual's extraordinary ability. Jan 20, 2025 · A petition filed by an agent is subject to additional evidentiary requirements listed under 8 CFR 214. The difficulty is providing the necessary documentation to demonstrate to US immigration officials that you possess extraordinary ability. May 23, 2025 · Learn who qualifies for the O-1 visa requirements, what documents you need, and how to apply successfully. Learn about processing times, premium options, and next steps. Yes, you can apply for a green card (permanent residency) while on an O1 visa by filing a petition with USCIS or through employment-based sponsorship by your employer. O-1 Visa: Key Takeaways The O-1 visa allows you to hire individuals with proven excellence in key industries without annual cap or lottery restrictions A premium processing service speeds up the decision process, guaranteeing application review in 15 days O-1 visas are valid for up to 3 years and can be extended as needed for ongoing work The O-1 visa supports dual intent, meaning the employee Jul 17, 2025 · The O-1 visa may seem out of reach, but thousands of startup founders and key talent qualify without even knowing it. The O-1 visa does not require a traditional sponsor, but it does require a petitioner, which can be a U. Jun 4, 2025 · Getting an O-1 visa is a great feat, but you also need to maintain your status during your stay. employer or U. Feb 28, 2025 · However, getting an H-1B visa can be difficult, as it depends on securing a job offer from an eligible employer who will also sponsor the visa. . We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Jun 28, 2025 · An applicant must have a US employer, agent, or foreign employer through a US agent petition for Form I-129 (Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker). Oct 7, 2024 · However, unlike the O-1 visa, this is a permanent residency visa, meaning you can get a green card directly without needing an employer to sponsor you. The O-1 visa doesn't have annual caps or lottery requirements like the H-1B, and O-1 evidence often directly supports EB-1A applications. Nov 6, 2025 · Table of contents What Is the O1 Visa? O1 Visa General Eligibility Criteria Application Process for an O1 Visa USA O2 Visa Period of Stay, Extension of Stay, and Dual Intent Status Family Members of O1 and O2 Visa Holders How much does an O1 Visa cost? Employment Changes on an O1 Visa Why work with Global Citizen Solutions for your O1 Visa application? Get in touch with a U. sponsor, proof of achievement, and often benefit from premium processing for faster decisions. This must be approved before you start working for the new employer, as beginning work without approval could violate immigration rules and potentially jeopardize your legal status in the U. The O-2 visa is for certain persons accompanying O-1 artists and athletes. May 19, 2025 · If you want to change employers while holding an O-1 Visa, your new employer must file a new Form I-129 petition with USCIS. work visa for Indian professionals with extraordinary skills, avoiding H-1B’s caps and lottery. employer or agent on behalf of the beneficiary, there is an option for individuals to self-petition for an O1 visa. If that happens, there is a 60-day grace period to find another employer or change to a different visa status. Dec 8, 2024 · The O-1 visa allows dual intent, meaning you can apply for a green card while holding an O-1 visa. Jul 23, 2025 · Because the status of your O-1 visa is tied to your employment, if your employment is terminated, your O-1 status would be invalidated. Understanding the Employee-Employer Relationship The importance of creating a 1. However, one question that frequently arises is whether it’s possible to “self-petition” for the O-1 visa without a traditional U. Oct 23, 2024 · Introduction to the O-1 Visa for Freelancers and Entrepreneurs The O-1 visa is designed for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability in fields such as science, business, education, arts, or athletics. These options allow skilled professionals and extraordinary individuals to establish careers in the US independently. What happens, though, if you are not Discover the key O1 visa requirements and a full list of documents needed to apply. Jun 6, 2019 · An O-1 Visa beneficiary cannot generally transfer their O-1 Visa from one employer to another without filing another O-1 petition with USCIS. “Extraordinary ability” means that the visa holder must be at the top of their respective field. O-1B is for individuals with an extraordinary ability O1 visa benefits aliens of extraordinary ability in the science, arts, education, business or athletics. USCIS regulations provide that the petitioner may be either a U. $530 (for small employers and nonprofits). Petitions should be filed at least 45 days prior to starting employment. There’s also the O‑2 visa, which supports essential team members accompanying O‑1 holders, and the O‑3 visa Oct 8, 2025 · Entrepreneurs and startup founders may consider applying for the O-1A visa. Read on. You cannot simply start working for a different employer without filing a new petition with USCIS and without USCIS approving this petition. Mar 21, 2024 · Learn about the work restrictions associated with the O1 visa, including working only for the petitioning employer, engaging in work related to your extraordinary ability, and adhering to the terms of your petition. While it’s understandable that some employment situations do not work out, in order to legally switch employers, the foreign national would need the prospective employer to file an O-1 Change of Mar 21, 2024 · The O1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa category designed for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in their field, allowing them to work in the United States. employers, but each job must be covered by a USCIS-approved petition, either through separate employer petitions or a single agent representing multiple employers. During this time, you can find new employment, file a new petition, or prepare to leave the U. Discover exceptions, special circumstances, and tips for maintaining compliance with your O1 visa work restrictions. Understand how to comply with visa terms, transition to permanent residency, and more. work visa that doesn’t require employer sponsorship? Explore self-petition options like the EB-2 NIW and O-1, and see if you qualify for independent pathways. While most O1 visa petitions are filed by a U. Learn how to qualify for an O1 visa. S. From my experience, you don't really need the agent's name on the offer, actually after you have the visa, you can just work for anyone without giving updates to the immigration. Learn all about maintaining O-1 status. You may start your O-1 employment only after an approval notice (Form I-797) has been received. If they want to change jobs, the new employer must file without a new petition. O-1 visa HR guide for employers: when O-1 fits, timelines to file and start, transfer rules, O-3 dependents, validity, and who does what (HR vs legal). Using an O-1 agent allows you to consolidate multiple engagements under one petition, detailing contracts, dates, locations, and compensation for each assignment. employer. Aug 19, 2025 · The O‑1 visa is a non‑immigrant* visa designed for individuals with extraordinary ability in the fields of science, education, business, athletics (dubbed O‑1A) or the arts and entertainment (O‑1B).

O1 visa without employer. What happens, though, if you are not .