O Visa

O Visas are intended to allow Canadians who have an extraordinary ability in entertainment, art, business, science and certain other fields to practice their profession in the United States and to allow Americans to hire highly qualified foreigners.

We will answer your questions about how to get an 'O' visa and discuss how your application may be received. We will be honest about your chances and will not waste your time with an application that will be rejected on the grounds of insufficient experience or not enough acknowledged and verified talent.

Who you are

Experienced and successful movie, television and theatre professionals, including performers, cinematographers, editors, set designers and technical staff, who have guaranteed offers of work in the U.S.

• Artists and craftspeople, such as cabinet makers, glassblowers and other fine arts workers, with successful careers in Canada and offers of employment in the U.S., including teaching or mentoring
• Athletes with job offers in the States
• Cinematographers
• Stand-up comedians
• Editors
• Costume designers
• Set designers
• Hair and makeup professionals
• Science Research/ technicians
• Educators

​Because these visas are meant for professionals who have jobs waiting for them, it is important to proceed as quickly as possible so that you do not lose your potential job. Much of the process is not within our control, as we depend on the American authorities to process your application.

What You'll Need

• A resume showing that you have held positions of authority, seniority and critical importance, or jobs that require a high degree of skill or provide a high salary
• A consultation or written opinion from a peer group (such as a labour organization or expert in the field)
• Membership in associations that require outstanding achievement
• Published material in professional or major trade publications
• Original contributions to the field
• Participation in panels as a judge of another's work
• Any awards or distinctions earned
• Mentions in the press, describing you as "renowned, leading," or otherwise well-known and established in your field, particularly in the motion picture or television industry
• Lead roles in significant performances

It's not enough to simply prove that you have extraordinary ability: you must also have a specific job offer waiting for you in America.
Visas are also available for those who are an integral part of an extraordinary individual's ability to perform in their field, such as coaches, as well as for their immediate family members.