O-1

O-1 status at UB is available to employ foreign nationals of extraordinary ability in the sciences, art, education, business and athletics.  In matters not involving the arts, UB must demonstrate through extensive documentation that the individual for whom we are petitioning is nationally and/or internationally recognized as being one of a small percentage who have risen to the very top of their field.  Matters involving the arts require a showing that the artist is "prominent in his or her field of endeavor."  As is the case with individuals who hold H-1B status, individuals who hold O-1 status can hold dual intent.  O-1 status may be granted for an initial period of three years and may be extended indefinitely on a yearly basis.

The petition must demonstrate at least three of the following:

• Receipt of nationally or internationally recognized awards
• Membership in an organization that requires outstanding achievement
• Published materials about the applicant in professional or major trade publications
• Service as the judge of the works of others
• Original scientific or scholarly work of major significance in his or her field
• Evidence of authorship of scientific or scholarly work
• Evidence that s/he has been employed in a critical or essential capacity at an organization with a distinguished reputation
• Has commanded or will command a high salary in relation to others in the field

As it does with respect to all proposed filings, UBIS evaluates proposed evidence before it determines if UB will sponsor an individual for O-1 status since USCIS considers both the quantity and quality of evidence.