O visas allow individuals who have "extraordinary ability" in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics to come to the U.S. temporarily to work. It also allows individuals who have demonstrated "extraordinary achievement" in television or movies to come to the U.S. temporarily to work

Requirements:

(1) Proof of your extraordinary ability or achievement; and

(2) A job offer or contract for work in the U.S.

Duration of Visa:

3 years or the amount of time necessary to complete your work, with the possibility of extensions in 1-year increments as needed

Eligibility requirements

 To qualify as an individual of extraordinary ability the department must provide evidence of the applicant's having received a major internationally recognized award, such as the Nobel Prize OR at least three of the following:

• Receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence in the field.
• Membership in associations in the field, which require outstanding achievements of their members, as, judged by recognized experts in the field.
• Evidence of authorship of scholarly articles in the field, in professional journals, or other major media.
• Published material in professional or major trade publications or major media about the applicant's work.
• Evidence of participation on a panel, or individually, as the judge of the work of others in the field.
• Evidence in the form of 5 or 6 letters from prominent colleagues who can confirm the applicant's original scientific or scholarly contributions of major significance to the field. The case would be strengthened by letters from outside of the petitioner's community and outside the U.S.
• Evidence of employment in a critical or essential capacity for organizations and establishments that have a distinguished reputation.
• Evidence of commanding a high salary or other compensation for services. This category does not usually apply to academic positions.