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O-1 and O-2 evidence requirements guide

Updated: Author: Alina Kanametova

Guide Guides 8 pages Anonymized Access on request

Instruction on O-1 evidence: 8 pages from a DIY kit on which documents support the criteria and how the proof is organized in the filing.

O-1 EB-1A EB-2 NIW

About this document

A guidance page on documentary evidence for O-1A, O-1B, and O-2 petitions under Form I-129. It lists the core filing materials, the timing rules, and the evidence tests for extraordinary ability or achievement, plus separate rules for contracts, itineraries, and support roles. It also explains how USCIS reads

Key points

  • General O visa filings may need a cover letter, passport, labor consultation, background information, itineraries, and contracts.
  • Form I-129 should not be filed more than one year before need, and should be filed at least 45 days before employment.
  • An O-1A petition needs a peer advisory opinion, a contract or oral-agreement summary, and an events or itinerary description.
  • O-1A eligibility is shown by a major award or at least 3 listed types of evidence, such as prizes, publications, judging, or high pay.
  • O-1B petitions need a consultation, a contract or oral-agreement summary, and proof of awards or at least 3 listed criteria.
  • O-1B criteria include lead or starring roles, national recognition, major success, significant praise, high salary, and distinguished organizations.
  • O-2 support must be integral to the O-1 performance, use non-general critical skills, and cannot support O-1 business, education, or science cases.
  • For O-2 MPTV support, the record must show essential skills, substantial experience, and in some cases production inside and outside the US.

What is inside

  1. 1. O visa petition required evidence
  2. 2. O-1A visa petition
  3. 3. O-1B visa petition
  4. 4. O-2 applicant requirements
  5. 5. O-2 application process
  6. 6. Contract evidence
  7. 7. Itinerary evidence
  8. 8. Continuing work in the area

When it helps

A filing checklist and evidentiary guide for O-1A, O-1B, and O-2 petition preparation. It shows which documents USCIS expects for the classification, ability, contract, itinerary, and support-role showings.

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Source: Community (anonymized). The material opens on the site. Reference material, not legal advice.

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