Start your US immigration journey today with a Madison County O-1 visa lawyer
Lighthouse combines smart technology with legal services from licensed, independent O-1 visa attorneys to help you navigate the application 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 in Madison County and beyond. Unlike many work visas, the O-1 has no annual cap and an employer can sponsor it for up to three years. Unlimited one-year extensions are also possible. This creates opportunities for top talent in sciences, arts, education, business, and athletics.
The visa’s dual intent is a significant advantage, which allows you to pursue an O-1 visa to green card transition 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.
Check your O-1 eligibility
You may be eligible for an O-1 visa if you meet several key requirements, including the following:
- You must demonstrate extraordinary ability, proving 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 published work or original contributions.
- Have a U.S. employer or O‑1 visa agent sponsor your petition and get an advisory opinion from a relevant peer group.
- You must be coming to the U.S. with the intention to continue working in your specific area of extraordinary ability.
Your O-1 petition prepared in weeks, not months
Lighthouse combines legal expertise with purpose-built technology for an efficient O-1 petition. We handle all details, from evidence compilation to USCIS submission, so you focus on your career while we build your case.
A clear path forward
Our platform helps you explore your visa options. It walks you through each requirement and shows you how to strengthen your case. Submit your information through a simple form, and we will follow up with guidance on potential paths.
Expert legal review
Your petition receives a thorough review from our experienced O-1 visa attorneys to ensure it meets strict USCIS standards. We provide guidance on complex issues like job changes or amendments, which minimizes the risk of RFEs or denials. You have direct access to legal expertise throughout the process.
Total process transparency
You always know where your petition stands. Our platform displays your status, outstanding requirements, and upcoming deadlines. With clear timelines and explanations for each step, you can plan with confidence and avoid surprises.
Designed for technical professionals
We support professionals in technology, engineering, and research. Our team understands the unique profiles of software engineers, data scientists, and researchers, and knows how to present complex technical achievements to meet the O-1 visa's high standards for extraordinary ability.
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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."
Download our complete O-1 visa guide
Read our guide to learn about the entire O-1 visa process, from requirements to final approval, including:
- The three-of-eight criteria
- Step-by-step petition process
- Dual intent and green card path
- Dependent visas for family
- Timeline and cost breakdown
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Frequently asked questions
What kind of achievements do I need for an O-1 visa?
To qualify for an O-1 visa, you must show extraordinary ability through sustained national or international acclaim. USCIS looks for evidence like major awards, articles published about your work, a high salary, or membership in exclusive organizations. Unlike other visas, your proven track record of significant contributions is more important than a specific degree.
What is my employer’s role in sponsoring my O-1 visa?
Your employer or O-1 visa agent files Form I-129 and gets a written advisory opinion from a relevant peer group. They are also responsible for the filing fees, which can range from $460 to several thousand dollars with premium processing, and must provide a detailed description of your proposed work in the U.S.
How long does it typically take to get an O-1 visa?
Standard O-1 processing usually takes two to four months after the petition is submitted. If you need a faster response, premium processing costs $2,805 and guarantees a decision within 15 business days. Since the O-1 has no annual cap or lottery, your employer can file at any time. Consular processing abroad adds another two to four weeks.
Can I change employers while I am on an O-1 visa status?
Yes, you can change jobs, but your new employer must file a completely new O-1 petition and wait for its approval before you can start working. This process is different from H-1B portability, so it's crucial to plan your transition carefully to avoid any gaps in your employment authorization. The new petition requires fresh evidence and another advisory opinion.
What benefits can my spouse and children get on an O-1 visa?
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 are eligible for O-3 dependent visas, which allow them to live and study in the U.S. with you. However, it is important to note that O-3 visa holders are not permitted to work under any circumstances. This differs from some H-4 spouses who may be eligible for work authorization.
How should I prepare for my O-1 visa interview at the consulate?
For your O-1 visa interview, you should bring your approval notice, passport, DS-160 confirmation, and the evidence supporting your extraordinary ability. Be prepared to clearly explain your achievements and your specific role with the U.S. petitioner. The consular officer will want to understand how your work meets the high standards required for the O-1 visa.
How does Lighthouse assist with the O-1 visa application process?
Lighthouse is a documentation preparation platform, not a law firm. We help you understand potential visa pathways and then prepare a strong application that meets USCIS standards. Our team maps your accomplishments to the O-1 criteria and pairs you with an experienced attorney who reviews your case, combining technology with expert guidance to manage the complex paperwork.
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Begin your O-1 journey with Lighthouse
Our platform provides clear direction on your immigration options, and our legal experts will manage your case from start to finish.