The Golden Path for Entrepreneurs: The O-1 Visa

Do you already have a business plan? Have you pitched to investors? Started fundraising? Planning to use your patents? No matter which stage you’re at, whether you’re still preparing your startup idea or already running a growing company, if you’re considering moving your business to the U.S. and exploring visa options, you should seriously look into the O-1 visa. The O-1 is a work visa designed specifically for individuals who are among the top in their field. Many entrepreneurs have successfully used it to expand their businesses into the United States.

Why Is the O-1 Visa Especially Suitable for Entrepreneurs?

• No Annual Cap — Unlike the H-1B visa, the O-1 is not subject to an annual quota.

• Dual Intent — Like the H-1B and L-1 visas, O-1 holders can have immigration intent (that is, they can later apply for a green card).

• Flexible Duration — The O-1 is initially granted for up to three years and can be renewed annually with no overall time limit.

• Family Benefits — Dependents (spouse and children) can accompany the applicant and study in the U.S., though they are not authorized to work.

O-1 Visa Criteria

To qualify for an O-1 visa, applicants must meet at least three of the following eight criteria:

• Awards: Receipt of nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in the field.

• Membership: Membership in associations that require outstanding achievements, judged by recognized experts.

• Media Coverage: Published material in professional or major media about the beneficiary and their work.

• Judging Others: Participation, individually or on a panel, as a judge of the work of others in the same or related field.

• Original Contributions: Original scientific, scholarly, or business-related contributions of major significance in the field.

• Scholarly Publications: Authorship of scholarly articles in professional journals or other major media.

• Critical Role: Employment in a leading or critical role for organizations or establishments with a distinguished reputation.

• High Compensation: Commanding a high salary or other remuneration for services, shown by contracts or reliable evidence.

Real Case Examples

Case 1: An entrepreneur (Founder & COO) led her company from inception through multiple funding rounds, raising over $4 million and earning a spot in a top-tier global accelerator program. She was featured in Entrepreneur Magazine, and her company reached a multi-million-dollar valuation. Her compensation and equity ranked among the top in her field.  ( Approved )

Case 2: A Chief Business Officer helped his company raise $6 million in funding, with a valuation exceeding $50 million. He was an active member of a leading entrepreneurs’ association, and his innovations were featured in national business media. With an annual salary of $300,000 and 5% equity, he demonstrated both exceptional ability and leadership.  ( Approved )

Case 3: A founder and product lead developed patented technology that received $7 million in government funding from a U.S. city. Multiple industry publications reported his innovation. Although the company was still in its early growth stage, his core equity holdings and valuation documents showed high financial returns.

 ( Approved )

Conclusion：

The O-1 visa is more than a work authorization; it’s a recognition of excellence. It allows those with true ability and potential to build their ventures in the U.S. without quota limits, access global resources, and realize greater value.

If you’re planning to start or expand your business in the United States, the O-1 visa may be one of your best options. It’s wise to begin preparing early, organizing your evidence, and consulting an experienced immigration attorney to ensure a smooth and successful application.