The recent decision by Donald Trump’s administration to impose a steep $100,000 application fee for new H-1B visas has unsettled professionals and companies worldwide. While the White House clarified that the fee applies only to fresh applicants, the announcement triggered uncertainty and anxiety, especially in the tech and education sectors. As a result, attention has shifted towards the O-1 visa, a category created for individuals recognised as being at the very top of their field. Unlike the H-1B programme, which is tightly capped, lottery-driven, and now far more expensive, the O-1 offers a skill-based alternative that emphasises talent and recognition over quotas and fees.

Key features of the O-1 visa

The O-1 visa is designed for people with “extraordinary ability”, meaning they have achieved significant recognition in their domain. It comes in two types:

This visa is initially granted for up to three years and can be extended in one-year increments. Unlike the H-1B, there is no lottery or annual limit, and the approval rate stands at about 93%, making it a reliable option for qualified professionals.

Step-by-step procedure to apply for O-1 visa

1. Confirm your eligibilityCheck that you meet the “extraordinary ability” standard in your field. Gather evidence such as awards, media coverage, or proof of major contributions.2. Secure a US sponsorYou need a US employer, agent, or foreign employer with a US agent to file your petition. Self-petitioning is not allowed unless you apply through an agent.3. Gather and prepare all documentation

4. File Form I-129 with USCISYour sponsor files Form I-129 (Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker) along with supporting documents. Processing usually takes 2–3 months, but Premium Processing (15 days) is available for an extra fee.5. Wait for USCIS decisionIf approved, you receive a Notice of Approval (Form I-797). If more evidence is needed, USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE).6. Apply for the O-1 visa stamp (if outside the US)Complete Form DS-160, pay the visa fee, and schedule a consular interview. Bring your passport, approval notice, contract, and other supporting documents.7. Attend the visa interviewAt the US embassy/consulate, present your case and answer questions about your work and achievements. Some applicants may qualify for interview waivers.8. Receive your visa and travel to the USOnce approved, your visa is stamped. You and eligible dependents (O-3 for spouse and children under 21) can enter the US for the approved period.Note: Each O-1 petition is employer-specific. A new employer means filing a new petition. While O-1 does not directly lead to permanent residency, it can serve as a stepping stone to the EB-1 “extraordinary ability” visa.

Cost advantage over H-1B

While the H-1B now requires a $100,000 application fee for new applicants, the O-1’s costs are far more manageable. The official integrity fee is $250, and with legal and processing expenses, the total averages around $12,000. For both applicants and employers, this difference makes the O-1 a much more affordable pathway compared to the newly inflated H-1B route.

O-1 vs EB-1A: temporary vs permanent

The O-1 is a non-immigrant visa, ideal for those who want to work in the US temporarily. In contrast, the EB-1A visa—often nicknamed the “Einstein visa”—offers a pathway to permanent residency. Both categories target individuals of extraordinary ability, but EB-1A demands a higher level of sustained international acclaim.With companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and JPMorgan advising staff to plan around the new H-1B rules, the O-1 visa has quickly emerged as an attractive alternative. It prioritises skill and recognition, offers strong approval rates, and provides flexibility for top global professionals seeking opportunities in the US.