O-1 / O-2 / O-3 · Timeline

From petition to visa

1. 1

   File Form I-129

   The petitioner files Form I-129 with the evidence and the consultation. It cannot be filed more than one year before your services are needed, and USCIS advises filing at least 45 days before the employment start date to avoid delays.^[1,2]

2. 2

   USCIS decides

   O petitions are decided at a USCIS service center, even in emergencies. If approved, the petitioner receives Form I-797, Notice of Action, showing your name, the classification and the petition's validity period.^[1]

3. 3

   Visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate

   With the approval, you apply for the O visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate. The approval does not by itself establish that you are eligible for a visa, and the consular officer can confirm the facts in the petition at the interview. If you do not need a visa, you may present a copy of the approval notice at the port of entry.^[1,2,3,4]

4. 4

   Travel

   Consulates may issue the visa up to 90 days before the start of status shown on Form I-797, but you can use it to apply for admission only starting 10 days before the approved period begins.^[4]