For many professionals around the world, working in the United States is a lifelong dream. It’s a chance to grow their careers, collaborate with global leaders, and gain access to unmatched opportunities. But one thing stands in their way—getting a US work visa can seem almost impossible.
At Remitly, we know how overwhelming this process can feel. The good news? It doesn’t have to be. For skilled professionals, the Global Talent Visa (O-1) offers a clear and rewarding pathway to work and thrive in the US. In this guide, you’ll find out what the Global Talent Visa is, who qualifies, plus practical tips to help get you started.
Let’s dive in so you can take your career to the next level and secure your US work visa for experts.
What is the Global Talent Visa?
Officially known as the O-1 visa, the Global Talent Visa is a US work visa for professionals who’ve shown extraordinary ability or achievement in their field. Think of it as a visa for experts. It’s a way for highly skilled individuals to live and work in the US based on their proven talent and professional impact.
It’s designed for professionals who’ve demonstrated exceptional accomplishments in areas such as:
- Science and education
- Business and entrepreneurship
- Arts, music, or entertainment
- Sports or athletics
Unlike other US work visas, the O-1 visa isn’t subject to an annual cap, so there’s no lottery or quota limiting how many people can apply. If you qualify, you can apply anytime. There are two types of O-1 visa you can apply for, depending on your circumstances:
- O-1A: For individuals working in science, education, business, or athletics.
- O-1B: For individuals working in the arts, film, or entertainment industries.
Each of these has slightly different eligibility criteria, but both have the same purpose: to make it easier for exceptional individuals with a proven extraordinary ability in their field to live and work in the US.
The benefits of the Global Talent Visa
The Global Talent Visa was designed to make it easier for experts across different industries to pursue their careers in the United States. Beyond the chance to live and work in the US, it also offers several unique benefits compared to other types of visas.
- No annual cap or lottery: Unlike the H-1B visa, there’s no annual cap or quota on how many O-1 visas are issued each year. You can apply whenever you’re ready and believe your application will be accepted. There’s no need to wait for the next lottery cycle.
- Flexible employment: O-1 visa holders can work with multiple employers in the US, as long as each position is covered by an approved petition. Changing sponsors is also much simpler than with other visas, giving you more freedom to pursue new opportunities.
- Longer stays: While an O-1 visa is usually granted for up to three years, it can be extended indefinitely in one-year increments. This flexibility gives you the security and flexibility to continue your work in the United States for as long as you need.
- Permanent path to residency: Many Global Talent Visa holders later transition to the EB-1 visa, an employment-based green card for individuals with extraordinary ability. This makes the O-1 visa a stepping stone to obtaining permanent residency in the US.
Finally, holding an O-1 visa is a mark of distinction. To be awarded one, you have to be at the top of your field, making you part of an elite group of experts—regardless of the industry you’re working in.
Are you eligible for a Global Talent Visa?
It’s natural to want to apply for an O-1 visa if you’re aiming to live and work in the US, but not everyone qualifies. To be eligible, you’ll need to demonstrate extraordinary ability in your field and show you’ve reached a level of success and recognition that sets you apart from most other professionals in your industry.
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the body that oversees the application process. In some cases, they’ll need proof you’ve received a major internationally recognized award, like a Nobel Prize. If not, you can still qualify by providing evidence that meets several key criteria, such as:
- Membership in associations that require outstanding achievements.
- Published material about you in major media outlets or industry publications.
- Judging the work of others in your professional field.
- Original contributions of major significance to your field.
- Authorship of scholarly articles in reputable academic journals or trade publications.
- Employment in a critical or essential role for an organization with a distinguished reputation.
You don’t need to meet every criterion to be eligible for the Global Talent Visa. At least three solid pieces of evidence can be enough for this—naturally, the more evidence you provide, the stronger your case will be.
Be sure to accurately and confidently highlight your achievements. This is your chance to show USCIS why you should be considered an expert in your industry.
How to apply: A step-by-step guide
Once you’ve confirmed that you’re eligible for the O-1 visa, it’s natural to want to get started on the application process. This can seem complicated and overwhelming at first, but it’s actually quite manageable when you break it down into clear steps.
Find a sponsor
You can’t apply for an O-1 visa on your own. A US employer, agent, or sponsor will have to file the petition on your behalf, and they’ll act as your representative for employment in the US. In some cases, they can sponsor you for freelance or project-based work with multiple employers, but this route is usually more complex and may require extra documentation.
Gather your evidence
This is your chance to show off your extraordinary ability. Gather proof of your achievements, such as awards, publications, recommendation letters, and press coverage. Try to include three to five letters of recommendation from respected experts in your industry to help strengthen your case. These letters add weight to your application by confirming your talent and professional impact.
File the petition
Armed with proof of your accomplishments, your sponsor will file a Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. Processing times after this can vary and usually take between two and three months, but the USCIS offers a Premium Processing option for an additional fee, which speeds this up to just 15 days.
Attend your visa interview
Once your petition is approved, you’ll have to schedule an interview with the US embassy or consulate in your home country. This step verifies your eligibility and ensures all your paperwork is in order.
Receive a decision
Once your interview is complete, you’ll receive a decision on your visa application. If it’s approved, your passport will be stamped with your O-1 visa, and you can start planning your move to the United States. If it’s rejected, don’t lose hope. You can appeal the decision or reapply later once you’ve strengthened your application.
What does it cost to apply for the Global Talent Visa?
Cost can often feel like one of the biggest barriers when you’re moving to a new country, and it’s worth keeping this in mind when you’re applying for a Global Talent Visa. Thankfully, filing an application for an O-1 visa isn’t too expensive compared to other US visa types, though there are a few separate fees involved.
As of 2024, here’s what you can expect:
- Form I-129 filing: $1,055 USD for standard employers, or $530 USD for small businesses and non-profits. This is paid by your US sponsor or employer when they file your petition.
- Visa application fee (Form DS-160): $205 USD, paid by you when applying for the actual visa at a US embassy or consulate.
- Premium Processing (optional): $2,805 USD if you’d like your petition processed within 15 calendar days instead of the usual few months.
Keep in mind that legal assistance can also add to the overall cost. Immigration lawyer fees vary depending on the complexity of your case, your location, and their level of expertise.
The total cost of applying for a Global Talent Visa usually starts at around $1,200 USD, plus any legal or expedited processing fees. Confirm the current rates on the official USCIS website before applying.
Take the next step in your career
The Global Talent Visa offers an incredible opportunity for professionals who’ve worked hard to reach the top of their fields. Unlike other visas, it’s not about luck or quotas. The O-1 visa recognizes the dedication and achievements you’ve put into becoming a leader in your chosen industry.
With the right preparation, documentation, and sponsorship, you can build a strong application and bring your expertise to the United States.
If you’ve already achieved success in your career, the world shouldn’t feel out of reach. The O-1 visa can open doors to global opportunities, professional growth, and a chance to share your skills on one of the biggest stages in the world.
FAQs
How long does it take to get a Global Talent Visa?
Processing times for Global Talent Visa applicants can vary, but it usually takes between two and three months. If you choose the USCIS Premium Processing service, it could take as little as 15 days. Keep in mind that the interview and visa issuance might add a few more weeks to the timeline.
Can I bring my family with me?
Yes. Your partner and any unmarried children under 21 can come with you under the O-3 visa. They’ll be able to live and study in the US while you work, but they can’t take up paid employment during their stay.
What if my application is denied?
A rejection doesn’t have to be the end of the road. You can appeal the decision with the USCIS, reapply after strengthening your documentation, or work with an immigration lawyer to improve your case and increase your chances next time.
Do I need a lawyer to apply for a Global Talent Visa?
It’s not required, but it’s definitely recommended. The O-1 visa process can be complicated, and a qualified immigration lawyer can help you gather strong evidence, meet USCIS standards, and submit a complete, well-organized application.