April 22, 2024
Obtaining an O visa for a model involves several steps. The O visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in their field, which includes the arts, sciences, education, business, or athletics. Models can qualify for an O visa if they can demonstrate extraordinary ability in their field, such as a high level of achievement in modeling.
Here are the key steps to obtaining an O visa for a model:
- Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for an O visa, a model must demonstrate extraordinary ability by sustained national or international acclaim. This can be shown through a combination of achievements such as awards, recognition from peers, media coverage, and evidence of a significant body of work in the field of modeling.
- Employer Sponsorship: The model must have an employer or agent in the United States who will sponsor their O visa application. The employer or agent will file Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of the model.
- Supporting Documentation: The model must provide supporting documentation to demonstrate their extraordinary ability. This may include:
- Copies of any awards or honors received.
- Articles or publications featuring the model.
- Evidence of the model’s participation as a judge or panelist in modeling competitions.
- Testimonials from experts in the field of modeling.
- Evidence of the model’s high earnings or salary in the field of modeling.
- Consultation: For O visa applications in the arts, including modeling, USCIS requires a written advisory opinion from a peer group, labor organization, or management organization in the field of the beneficiary’s expertise. This consultation is meant to verify the beneficiary’s qualifications.
- File Form I-129: The model’s employer or agent must file Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, with the USCIS. Along with the petition, they must include all supporting documentation, including the written advisory opinion.
- Interview (if required): In some cases, the model may be required to attend an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy in their home country as part of the visa application process.
- Visa Issuance: If the O visa application is approved, the model will be issued an O visa, which will allow them to enter the United States for the specific purpose of modeling.
It’s important to note that the O visa application process can be complex, and it’s advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced immigration attorney to help navigate the process and ensure all requirements are met. Our firm can help you secure that visa.