Persons of Extraordinary Ability in Arts, Science, Business and Athletics: Limits on O-1 Visas

O-1 visas have no specified maximum period of admission. Initial O-1 visas may be issued for a maximum of three years. After the first three-year period, O-1 status may be extended in one- year increments indefinitely.

All O-1 visa holders must be employees. Normally self-employed occupations may receive O-1 status only if sponsored by an employer or a representative agents or management company. However, if there are multiple employers, each employer must file a separate O-1 petition and the petition must be approved prior to the commencement of the contemplated employment.