What is the difference between O-1A and O-1B?

O-1A covers extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, and athletics — including physicians and researchers. O-1B covers extraordinary ability in the arts and extraordinary achievement in film or television. Each category uses its own set of regulatory evidentiary criteria, and the verbal standards differ.

Can I self-petition for an EB-1A green card?

Yes. EB-1A is one of the few employment-based categories that allows a self-petition with no employer, no job offer, and no labor certification. You must satisfy at least three of ten regulatory criteria and then pass the final-merits determination that weighs your evidence as a whole.

Do I need a job offer for an O-1 visa?

You need a U.S. petitioner — either an employer or, for artists and certain professionals, a U.S. agent who can file for multiple engagements with multiple end-clients. The petition must include an itinerary of the events or services planned during the requested period.

How long does an O-1 visa last?

An O-1 is granted for up to three years initially, tied to the event or activity, and may be extended in one-year increments to continue the same work. There is no fixed statutory cap on the number of extensions, provided the underlying work continues.

Is EB-2 NIW better than EB-1A for physicians?

It depends on your record and country of birth. EB-1A requires extraordinary ability but allows self-petition and often has more current priority dates. EB-2 NIW has a generally lower standard but still requires a national-interest showing. A strategy session compares both for your specific situation.

Do you work with Russian and Ukrainian speakers in Hollywood?

Yes. Our office serves the Russian- and Ukrainian-speaking professional community of Hollywood, Emerald Hills, and South Florida in both English and Russian, including artists, physicians, and researchers pursuing O-1 and EB-1A extraordinary-ability petitions. Call (305) 315-3425 to begin.

The 2026 Guide to EB-1A and O-1 Extraordinary-Ability Visas for Hollywood, Florida Creative and Medical Professionals

O-1A, O-1B and EB-1A extraordinary-ability visas for Hollywood, FL artists, physicians and researchers. Strategy session — call (305) 315-3425.

Fitenko Law PLLC, 600 Three Islands Blvd, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009. Phone: (305) 315-3425. Email: fitenkolaw@gmail.com