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.

The O-1 visa is an employer-sponsored pathway for individuals with extraordinary ability. Unlike other work visas, it has no annual cap and allows an initial stay of up to three years, with unlimited one-year extensions. This creates opportunities for top talent in science, arts, business, and athletics to work with U.S. employers in Las Vegas and beyond.
The visa’s dual intent is a significant advantage, as it lets you pursue permanent residence while you hold O-1 status. This flexibility makes the O-1 a strong option for professionals who want to build long-term careers in the United States. The O-1 visa to green card transition provides stability.
You may be eligible for an O-1 visa if you meet several key requirements, including the following:
Demonstrate extraordinary ability by showing you are among the small percentage who have risen to the very top of your field.
Provide evidence of a major internationally recognized award, or meet at least three of eight criteria like awards, 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 peer group.
Be coming to the U.S. with the sole purpose of continuing to work in your area of extraordinary ability.
Our platform, powered by legal experts, prepares your O-1 petition in weeks, not months. We manage the entire process, from evidence collection to USCIS submission, so you can focus on your career.
Our platform helps you explore your visa options through a clear, digital process. It walks you through each requirement and shows how to strengthen your case. Submit a simple form, and we will follow up with guidance on potential paths.
Our experienced O-1 visa attorneys examine every petition to ensure it meets strict USCIS standards. This process minimizes the risk of delays, RFEs, or denials. Our team also provides guidance on complex situations, so you have access to legal expertise throughout your application.
You always know where you are in the process. Our platform displays your petition status, outstanding requirements, and all deadlines. We provide clear timelines and explain what comes next at each stage. This transparency removes uncertainty and helps you plan.
We work with professionals in technology, engineering, and research. Our team understands the specific documentation needs of software engineers, data scientists, and other specialty roles. We prepare petitions that showcase the complex contributions unique to these advanced fields.
Read this resource to understand the full O-1 visa process, from eligibility requirements to final petition approval, including:


To qualify, you need to show extraordinary ability in your field through sustained national or international acclaim. USCIS looks at evidence like major awards, articles published 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.
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 is generally responsible for the filing fees, which can range from the base $460 fee to several thousand dollars if you choose premium processing. They also provide a detailed job description.
Standard processing usually takes two to four months after the petition is submitted. If you opt for premium processing, which costs an additional fee, USCIS provides a decision within 15 business days. The O-1 visa has no annual cap or lottery, so you can file anytime. Consular processing abroad can add another two to four weeks.
Yes, you can change employers, but your new employer must file a completely new O-1 petition for you. You must wait for the new petition to be approved before you can start the new job. This process requires fresh evidence of your extraordinary ability and a new advisory opinion, so plan your transition carefully.
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's important to know that O-3 status does not permit them to work under any circumstances. This is a key difference from some H-4 spouses who may be eligible for work authorization.
For your O-1 visa interview, you should bring your approval notice, passport, DS-160 confirmation page, and the evidence supporting your case. Be prepared to discuss your achievements, your proposed role in the U.S., and why you meet the extraordinary ability standard. Clearly explaining your work in simple terms is key to a successful interview.
Lighthouse is a platform that helps you prepare your immigration documentation. We help you understand the best visa path for your situation and then map your accomplishments to USCIS criteria. Our team pairs you with an experienced O-1 visa attorney who reviews your case, combining technology with expert guidance to manage the complex paperwork.
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Our platform provides clear direction on your immigration options and a legal team to manage your case from preparation through USCIS submission.
