Difference Between O-1A And EB-1A For Athletes
In most circumstances, Gill Law Firm highly recommends the O-1A visa first for athletes who are not currently located in the U.S.
The O-1A visa is a non-immigrant option for foreign nationals with extraordinary abilities. The EB-1A green card does not come with this visa, but it can be acquired easily in the future.
On the other hand, The EB-1A visa by itself is the permanent resident option for foreign nationals with extraordinary abilities. But, obtaining a green card first without prior visas, can be a long and tedious process.
What are the main differences?
The O-1A Benefits for Athletes
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The O-1A is a non-immigrant version of the EB-1A.
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The O-1A typically takes much less time to obtain access to the United States with work authorization.
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The O-1A has the exact basic eligibility requirements as the EB-1A but is adjudicated at a lower standard.
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The O-1A is dual intent, which means it is outstanding to transition from O-1A to EB-1A while inside the United States already by Adjustment of Status.
EB-1A Visa vs O-1A For Athletes
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EB-1A is the permanent (Green Card) version of the O-1A.
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Consular processing of a Green Card after approval can take a long time.
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The EB-1A has the exact basic eligibility requirements as the O-1A but is referred to a higher standard, making it more challenging to approve.
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Applying for the EB-1A through adjustment of status while inside the United States on an O-1A visa is much preferable to consular processing outside of the United States.
Why Applying for the O-1 first is better?
The O-1A visa can be filed with premium processing, and consulates around the World have current availability for interview dates. Depending on the circumstances, this means it can take a month to be inside the United States with work authorization.
In addition, the O-1A is adjudicated at a lower standard, so if you can get the O-1A, you have time to build a resume in the United States to be a great candidate for the EB-1A visa.
Finally, we have a unique program for persons interested in the EB-1A and choose us to do both the EB-1A and O-1A visa.
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The EB-1A is 50% off when coupled with O-1 filing first. The adjustment of status fees is still the same.