O-1 Overview

The O-1 category is reserved for the temporary employment of individuals who have achieved sustained national or international acclaim for extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business or athletics. O-1 petitions are granted for the employment at a specific location, for a specific employer and a specific period of time. Although there is no statutory limitation to the period of time an individual can remain in the U.S. under the O-1 status, initial petitions will only be granted for a maximum of 3 years. Individuals may then petition for extension of status in increments of one year at time as needed. RBHS departments wishing to sponsor an individual for O-1 status must complete and submit to the OIS an internal “O-1 application form”.