Documents you'll need
| Document | Details | Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Passport | Valid for at least 6 months, with a copy of the photo page | Required |
| DS-160 form | Completed online and checked by us | We prepare |
| Photo | Recent colour passport photo | Required |
| Interview appointment | At the US Embassy in London or Consulate in Belfast | We prepare |
| Petition approval | USCIS approval notice (Form I-797) | Required |
| Evidence of achievements | Awards, press, contracts or expert letters | Required |
We give you a full checklist for your circumstances at your consultation.
How the O-1 visa works
A US employer or agent files a petition with US Citizenship and Immigration Services, with evidence of your achievements, such as awards, press coverage and expert letters. Once approved, you apply for the visa and attend an interview.
The US visa interview
Most US visas involve the online DS-160 form, paying the visa fee, and an interview at the US Embassy in London or the US Consulate in Belfast. Every answer on the DS-160 must be accurate and match your documents. We prepare your form and tell you what to take to the interview.
Evidence for an O-1 visa petition
The petition must show sustained national or international recognition. Typical evidence includes:
- Major awards or nominations in your field
- Press coverage of you or your work
- A high salary compared with others in your field
- Letters from recognised experts
- Lead or critical roles for distinguished organisations or productions
We help you gather and organise this evidence with your US employer or agent.
O-1 visa help from Manchester
We're based in Manchester city centre and help travellers and businesses across the UK. We check the rules for your passport, prepare your application and keep you updated until it's decided.
How we help
- Check your eligibility and confirm the right route at your consultation
- Give you a personalised document checklist
- Prepare and complete your application forms
- Review all evidence against the current rules before submission
- Keep you updated until you have a decision
Fees and timescales
| Service | Visa length | Embassy fee (incl. VAT) | Our fee | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Application completed and documents checked | Ask us | – | Call for price | – |
The embassy fee includes the visa centre charges and VAT. It can depend on your nationality and the number of entries, so we confirm it before you pay.
Returning your passport
| Delivery option | Price |
|---|---|
| Special Delivery | £15 |
| Special Delivery by 9am | £45 |
| Saturday Guaranteed | £55 |
| Saturday by 9am | £65 |
| Courier | We’ll quote |
Common questions
Who files the O-1 petition?
A US employer or agent, with US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
What evidence is needed?
Evidence of extraordinary ability, such as major awards, press coverage, high earnings or expert letters.
How long does a O-1 visa take?
Processing times vary with the authority and the time of year. Apply as early as you can, and don’t book non-refundable travel until your visa or authorisation is approved.
Can you help with my O-1 visa application?
Yes. We check which visa fits your trip, prepare your O-1 visa application and documents, and keep you updated. Contact us or call 0161 956 2003.