There is a type of visa specifically made for individuals with extraordinary abilities. It is known as the 0-1 visa. This extraordinary ability should be found in sciences, arts, athletics, sports, business, or the education sector which the 0-1A visa falls under.
These individuals must have demonstrated these extraordinary abilities and must have a record of them either in pictures or videos while being recognized nationally or internationally for these abilities.
To qualify for this visa as an individual, the extraordinary abilities you must have displayed must be nationally or internationally recognized over time. These individuals must also be open as regards traveling out of their initial place of residence. The reason they have to be willing to travel abroad is so that they can resume work temporarily in the US.
Extraordinary abilities in the field of arts differ from that of science, business, education, or athletics. Extraordinary abilities in the field of arts mean distinction, which means a high level of achievement in the field of arts.
This is shown with evidence in skill and abilities so rare, as such must have gained recognition and prowess in the field of arts. However, extraordinary abilities in the field of business, science, athletics, and education mean such person is an expert in that field and have risen above so many others who are in the same field, to the extent they look up to you for professional advice and theories concerning the same field.
However, it is imperative to note that the 0-1 visa is in two categories, which are 0-1A and 0-1B visas.
As earlier stated, the 01A visa is granted to those with extraordinary abilities in fields of science, education, business, athletics, and education.
They become professionals in their field, as such have people look up to them in areas where they are exceptional. However, the 0-1Bis for those who have shown extraordinary abilities in the field of arts. This includes motion pictures or television too.
Although the Embassy categorically stated that the 0-1A may not need an assistant who is usually is 0-2 visa holder.
However, in cases where it is very important for the 0-1A visa holder to be assisted by the 0-2, the assistant must be totally conversant with the activities of the 0-1A visa holder as well as be actively involved with the 0-1A visa holder.
How to qualify for a 0-1 A visa
Qualifying for the 0-1A visa is quite easy. It just requires an applicant providing documents to prove that you have the extraordinary abilities that are needed to be a 0-1A visa holder.
This proof may include awards earned at both the national and international level, Recognised prizes for excellence, being a member of a recognized association, proof of outstanding achievements like articles written and published by the applicant, project successfully accomplished by the applicants.
The employer may also need letters signed by professionals or experts in the same field as the applicants, attesting to the fact that the applicant indeed has extraordinary abilities, especially in the field.
How to apply for a 0-1 A Visa
As earlier stated above, a US employer, agent, or even a foreign employer in the US will file the form 1-129 petition for non-immigrant for you, alongside all proof or evidence, depending on what has been filled in the form.
This petition cannot be filed more than a year before your service is actually needed. To avoid any delay or confusion, it is advisable for the US employer to file this petition 45 days before the date of employment.
Therefore, the steps you and your employer will take when applying for a 0-1 visa includes;
1. File a petition
The US employer will file the petition for the 0-1A visa on behalf of the extraordinary person or you depending on who.
2. Petition to USCIS
The petition which will be filed will be with the USCIS on your behalf. At this stage, the US agent or employer will file Form 1-129 and completely fill the form with the necessary requirements.
3. Pay the application fee
There are certain important fees to be paid, and the application fee is one of them. The US employer will proceed to pay the application fee which is usually $460 dollars. They’d fill necessary documents and submit them to the USCIS after which the USCIS will review the petition and give feedback on their decision which is either positive or negative.
If their decision is positive, then the application process can proceed.
4. Pay the visa fees
The next step after the application fee and positive feedback from the USCIS is to pay the visa fees. This fee can be paid online or through a bank, but it is important to have a receipt which will also be attached to the document and presented on the day of the visa appointment.
5. Schedule an appointment
This is where you’d be a need to schedule an appointment for an interview with the US embassy. You can schedule these appointments online.
6. Gather necessary documents
You’d be asked to come with certain documents, at this stage you are expected to gather and arrange the required documents. The following documents are needed when applying for this 0-1 visa. They include;
- A written note or consultation from a colleague who operates in your field. The person must also be an expert in your field.
- A copy or document of the contract of employment that includes all agreements and conditions under which you’ll be employed.
- As an employee, there are certain conditions under which you are being employed, this includes activities and events in which you are to participate in. Therefore, there’d be a document outlining all activities and events in which you would participate. They include dates, venues, and other details pertaining to the activities.
- Knowing that you have extraordinary abilities is not enough, there’d be a need for proof. This evidence or proof will truly show your abilities. Proof shows your achievements, and they may be an award, published articles or projects about your field of expertise, top research and contributions in your field of expertise, or being a member of a renowned or highly distinguished association that concerns your field, etc.
