Start your US immigration journey today with a Houston O-1 visa lawyer
Lighthouse combines smart technology with legal services provided by licensed, independent O-1 visa attorneys to help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
Advance your career with the O-1 visa
The O-1 visa lets individuals with extraordinary ability work in specialized fields across Houston and the rest of the U.S. Unlike other work visas, it has no annual cap. An employer sponsors the visa for up to three years, with unlimited one-year extensions available. This creates opportunities for top talent in sciences, arts, education, business, and athletics.
The visa’s dual intent is a key benefit, as it allows you to pursue permanent residence while you hold O-1 status. This flexibility with the O-1 visa to green card pathway makes it a strong option for professionals who build long-term careers in the United States.
Check your O-1 eligibility
You may be eligible for an O-1 visa if you meet several key requirements, including:
- Demonstrate extraordinary ability by showing you are among the small percentage who have risen to the very top of your field in sciences, business, or arts.
- Provide evidence of a major internationally recognized award, or meet at least three of eight criteria like original contributions, published work, or high compensation.
- Have a U.S. employer or O‑1 visa agent who will sponsor your petition and get an advisory opinion from a relevant peer group.
- Be coming to the U.S. with the intention to continue working in your specific area of extraordinary ability, not in an unrelated field.
We build your O-1 case in four steps
Lighthouse combines legal expertise with purpose-built technology to prepare your O-1 petition in weeks, not months. We handle all details, from evidence compilation to USCIS submission, so you can advance your career while we prepare your case.
Guidance on your options
Our digital platform clarifies your visa possibilities. It walks you through each requirement, explains what you need, and shows how to build a stronger case. Submit your information, and we follow up with guidance on potential paths forward.
Expert attorney review
Your O-1 petition receives a thorough review from our experienced O-1 visa attorneys. They ensure your application meets all USCIS standards to minimize the risk of delays or RFEs. You get direct access to legal expertise for guidance on complex situations like job changes or amendments.
Clarity at every step
You always know where your petition stands. Our platform shows your case status, what requirements remain, and all relevant deadlines. With clear timelines and explanations for each stage, you can plan ahead with confidence and avoid any surprises.
For skilled professionals
Our focus is O-1 petitions for experts in technology, engineering, and research. We understand the specific qualifications of software engineers, data scientists, and researchers, and frame their achievements to satisfy the criteria for advanced specialty occupation roles.
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Find Your Own Success Story
"Still trying to process this — my second O-1 has been approved! Thank you everyone, truly. Shoutout to for living up to their name when I needed help the most
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"Lighthouse is insanely fast. Your new colleague might not even have finished their work trial by the time Lighthouse has already gotten them an O1 visa. Highly recommend working with them!"
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"If you also want to join the league of extraordinary aliens, you should use Lighthouse. Impressively fast, but also confidently handled with the minimum fuss and very responsive which is just so calming in an otherwise very stressful process."
“US O1A visa approved! Thanks to Lighthouse that was much faster and less effort than I expected, they just took care of everything!”
“The weight of dealing with the immigration stuff has been some of the heaviest in my life...so her calm, extreme competence and her warmth made me so cared for.”
"O-1A approved! Thanks to Minn and Lighthouse for their guidance and support throughout the whole process. Would recommend working with them for your visa needs. Blazingly fast, no fuss and very responsive!"
"It was really great working with Minn and I strongly recommend a chat with her if you need help getting a visa!"
"I am forever grateful to Minn for helping me get O1A. Having dealt with a number of visas and attorneys over the past 5 years, working with Minn was the first time I felt supported and safe! Can't recommend enough. Awesome people, incredible product."
Get our complete O-1 visa guide
Read our in-depth resource to understand the full process, from meeting the criteria to getting your visa approved:
- Meet the three-of-eight criteria
- Dual intent and green card options
- Visa options for your family
- Timeline and cost estimates
- Navigate the petition process
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Frequently asked questions
What are the eligibility requirements for getting an O-1 visa?
To qualify, you must prove extraordinary ability in your field through sustained national or international acclaim. This is shown with evidence like major awards, articles written about you, a high salary, or significant contributions to your industry. Unlike other visas, a specific degree isn't required; your proven achievements are what matter most.
What is my employer’s role and who is responsible for the O-1 costs?
Your employer or an O-1 visa agent files Form I-129 and gets a written advisory opinion from a relevant peer group. The employer usually covers the filing fees, which can range from the base fee to several thousand dollars with premium processing. They must also provide a detailed outline of your proposed work.
How long does the entire O-1 visa process typically take from start to finish?
Standard processing usually takes two to four months after the petition is submitted. If you choose premium processing, USCIS provides a response within 15 business days. The O-1 visa has no annual cap or lottery, so you can file anytime. After approval, allow a few more weeks for the consular interview and visa stamping.
Is it possible for me to change employers while I am on O-1 status?
Yes, you can change jobs, but your new employer must file a completely new O-1 petition on your behalf. You must wait for the new petition to be approved before you can start the new role. This process requires fresh evidence of your abilities and a new advisory opinion, so plan accordingly to avoid work gaps.
What kind of benefits can my spouse and children get with my O-1 visa?
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 are eligible for O-3 dependent visas, which allow them to live in the U.S. and attend school. However, it is important to know that O-3 status does not grant work authorization under any circumstances. This is a key difference from some H-4 spouses who may be eligible to work.
How can I best prepare for my O-1 visa interview at the U.S. consulate?
For your O-1 visa interview, bring your approval notice, passport, DS-160 confirmation, and supporting evidence of your extraordinary ability. Be prepared to discuss your achievements, your specific role with the petitioner, and your plans in the U.S. You should be able to explain your work clearly and concisely to the consular officer.
What is Lighthouse and how does it help professionals with their O-1 visa applications?
Lighthouse is a platform that helps you navigate the U.S. immigration process. We help you understand the best visa path for your profile and then prepare your application to meet USCIS standards. Our team maps your accomplishments to the O-1 criteria and connects you with an experienced attorney who reviews your case from start to finish.
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Pursue your O-1 visa with Lighthouse
Our platform provides clear direction on your immigration options and a legal team that manages your case from evidence compilation through USCIS submission.