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What is an O-1 Visa?

The O-1 is for individuals in business, education, sciences, athletics, arts, motion pictures,  or television. Usually known as the "Artist" visa, O-1 is actually much more inclusive than you think. If you are accomplished and well-respected in your field, you likely qualify.

An O-1 Visa is designed to allow foreigners at the very top of their field of work in the arts, sciences, sports, education, business, motion picture, or television industries to live in the United States. If you have a U.S. company who needs to bring someone with extraordinary ability into the United States for work, an O-1 visa is an excellent option. 

Who is the O-1 Visa NOT for?

You don't need an O-1 Visa to start a company in the US.

It's true! Legally, you do not need a visa or U.S. residency to own a U.S. Company. If you don't want to have a global lifestyle, and live in the US, then you can learn the necessary legal strategies and tactics in my course for Founders Without Borders.

Who is the O-1 Visa for?

However, if you want to live in the US, you must acquire an O-1 Visa.

If a part of your dream includes living in America and adopting its culture, then you have come to the right place. The O-1 is the way to do that.

Who qualifies for an O-1 Visa?

O-1 is for individuals with extraordinary abilities in business education, sciences, athletics, arts, motion pictures,  or television. If you are accomplished and well-respected in your field, you likely qualify.

A Note for Extraordinary Business Owners

Under this definition of who the O-1 Visa is for, Venture Backed founders are considered extraordinary, and you'll meet all of the qualifications. If you have closed series A already or plan to do so soon, this is the best, and fastest option for you.

You are likely scaling your business to the U.S. market for prospects of exponential growth. Most founders follow this strategy. What most founders don't take into account is the elevation fo the status of their company globally after gaining U.S. residency. This increases your value across the board as you get to deal in US dollars globally.

Action Steps

• If you don't want a global lifestyle, check out Founders without Borders.
• If you want to live in the US, keep on working through this to acquire your O-1 Visa.